Concerns over wildlife as New Forest blaze continues
The fire service say they're working closely with other organisations to look after the wildlife
Last updated 11th Aug 2026
There are growing concerns around wildlife as a fire in the New Forest continues.
A fire broke out in the New Forest heathland following a vehicle blaze on the A31 on Sunday.
Shantha Dickinson's Deputy Chief Fire Officer at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service.
She said: "In terms of the scale of the fire, it's about 1km square, 140 football fields, so pretty big and also in open countryside as well.
"It's really important in our objectives of protecting life, protecting property and the natural environment that we are able to deal with that as quickly as possible.
"The New Forest itself is absolutely beloved area for us.
"In terms of that multi-agency approach, we're working very closely with Forestry England with the New Forest District Council, so we're really looking to their lead in terms of helping us sort of prioritise different task areas.
"But we recognise that whilst the priority is to get the fire out, what we are really looking at is minimising the damage to animals and to the environment."
We spoke to various people in Burley, an area where the smell of smoke was strong.
One lady said: "It's very sad when we think of the wildlife and obviously all this heather, and it's not good for the community.
"We need tourism and everyone's got stuck in traffic, the weather's warm.
"It's chaotic."
Forestry England sent us a statement.
A spokesperson said: “The emergency services are continuing to manage the current fire in the New Forest.
“Our team are supporting them by providing access, closing and patrolling car parks in the affected areas, and our tractor team are cutting new fire breaks to help prevent the fire from spreading further.
“Once the incident is under control we will be able to begin the process of assessing the damage and will provide further updates.
“Please do not visit the affected areas. Thank you for your support and patience during this time.”
The A31 remains closed and the fire service say teams will be working for the next few days.