CroatiaThe ancient tree known as Major Oak, located in Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire, England, has died after centuries of life. Estimated to be between 800 and 1,200 years old, Major Oak was one of the most famous trees in the United Kingdom, historically associated with the legendary outlaw Robin Hood. Experts from The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) confirmed its death, attributing it to a combination of factors including prolonged droughts, increasing heatwaves linked to climate change, soil compaction due to decades of heavy tourist traffic, and gradual weakening of its root system. Underground investigations revealed that the roots had become nearly severed from the surrounding soil, lacking nutrients and microorganisms. Additionally, numerous interventions over the past century, such as support structures to hold up its massive branches, hindered the tree’s natural process of shedding limbs, forcing it to sustain a large canopy well into its old age. Despite its death, experts emphasize that Major Oak’s ecological role continues. Its massive trunk and unique structure will provide habitat for more living organisms in the coming decades than it did during its 1
Bias read (Center): The article discusses the death of a historic tree and its ecological significance, focusing on environmental factors like climate change and human impact. It does not take a clear stance on political issues, nor does it frame the event in a politically charged manner.
