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Take a look, through some of the common species of wildlife that live in the South Yorkshire area around Sheffield and Rotherham.
A recently extended patch of heathland and woodland, neighbouring Wyming Brook.
Help stop the badger cull coming to Sheffield and Rotherham!
Unveil the hidden world of insects in Sheffield & Rotherham with the newest issue of Kingfisher magazine.
How to report a wildfire and information on the causes and preventions of countryside fires
If you see an uncontrolled fire or lots of smoke on a nature reserve, green space or in the open countryside please
Please give as much information about the fire and it’s location as possible (you may wish to utilise a location app such as Ordnance Survey or What3Words). Do not put yourself at risk by tackling a fire.
If you see someone deliberately starting a fire, including lighting a barbecue or campfire, on a nature reserve, green space or in the open countryside please report it to Firestoppers on 0800 169 5558 or via the FireStoppers website.
Additionally, if the fire or incident has taken place on a Sheffield & Rotherham Wildlife Trust nature reserve, please report it as above first and then let us know on 0114 263 4335 or mail@wildsheffield.com.
Sheffield and Rotherham are renowned for their green spaces, including outstanding parks, breathtaking nature reserves, and expansive Peak District moorlands. Our remarkable landscapes not only attract visitors seeking to connect with nature, but they are also home to a rich abundance of wildlife and habitats.
However, amidst the natural splendour, a looming danger persists: wildfires.
Wildfires primarily result from unintended sources, often stemming from careless actions. The most frequent causes include:
It is essential to take responsibility for your actions to prevent wildfires. Remember to always dispose of litter appropriately, either by taking it home or using available bins. Keep in mind that bins may not be present in open countryside or upland areas.
By practicing responsible behaviour, we can safeguard our precious landscapes and protect the habitats and wildlife that depend on them.
Fire on nature reserves, green spaces and the open countryside can cause catastrophic damage to wildlife, habitats and put people and emergency services at risk. The impact of wild fires can cost many millions of pounds to charities, landowners and businesses.
BBQs, disposable barbecues, camping and fires or open flame of any type are NOT permitted on any Sheffield & Rotherham Wildlife Trust nature reserve, including Wyming Brook, Blacka Moor, Greno Woods and more.
Additionally, barbecues, or any form of fire/open flame are NOT permitted in the open countryside anywhere in the Peak District. This position is shared by all major landowners in the area.
Sheffield City Council allow the use of personal barbecues in parks, subject to following their advice. Similarly, Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council allow the use of barbecues in many of their parks, often in designated spaces only. Please check the relevant park webpages on the council website or contact the relevant council for the latest information.
Rather than packing a BBQ, please consider bringing along a pre-prepared picnic of sandwiches and snacks.
Pre-prepared picnics are welcome at most sites, as long as you take care to dispose of all waste and litter, including leftover food.
Please always leave the area clean and tidy, and always follow the Countryside Code.
Sheffield & Rotherham Wildlife Trust supports proposals by fire services, national park authorities and other conservation organisations for a nationwide ban on disposable barbecues.We appreciate the value of consumer choice through proper use, but recognise that disposable BBQs are a regular proven source of catastrophic wild fires across Sheffield, Rotherham, the Peak District and nationally.Significant damage is caused by these fires to wildlife and protected habitats, huge costs amount from restoring affected areas and unnecessary strain is put upon fire services, rangers, volunteers and partner organisations.
Images courtesy of South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue