Wildlife experts warn the UK lacks preparation for extreme weather caused by climate change.
The country recorded its warmest summer ever, with average temperatures of 16.1C from June to August.
Experts stress that alternating droughts, heatwaves, floods, and storms cause severe damage to wildlife and humans.
The Wildlife Trusts’ report, Resilient Nature, reviewed 2,600 reserves across the UK and highlighted rapid climate acceleration.
Kathryn Brown, climate change director at the trust, said government action lags behind urgent adaptation needs.
She urged a major overhaul of UK climate policy, with increased funding and coordination to protect people and wildlife.
Nature Reserves Show Climate Impacts
Flitwick Moors in Bedfordshire flooded after September downpours, covering fields to protect nearby homes and roads.
Following four summer heatwaves, boggy meadows dried rapidly, leaving parched grassland and fewer wildflowers and pollinators.
Aidan Matthews, senior reserves manager, warned that wetland birds will suffer from food chain disruptions.
Cley-Next-the-Sea in Norfolk also faces climate pressures. Storm surges push seawater into freshwater habitats, altering wildlife patterns.
Norfolk Wildlife Trust reroutes drains to remove saltwater and protect birds, while creating inland habitats for displaced species.
Prof. Ed Turner at Cambridge stressed biodiversity loss is severe but reversible if people act and engage with conservation.
Government and Wildlife Trusts Clash
The Wildlife Trusts criticized the government for weak adaptation efforts during its first year in office.
Defra responded that it launched a £7.9bn, decade-long flood defence investment and funds environmental schemes including tree planting and peatland restoration.
Defra also said it aims to prepare the UK for climate impacts, improving resilience across urban and rural areas.
Experts warn that without swift action, UK wildlife and communities will face increasingly extreme and unpredictable weather events.
