A nature reserve's management has condemned what they are calling the "mindless destruction" of their site following a significant fire that swept through Rosenannon Downs, located near St Columb.
The fire, which occurred on Thursday, March 20, 2025, scorched about a quarter of the reserve's 275-acre territory, as reported by the Cornwall Wildlife Trust (CWT). While a herd of seven Shetland ponies managed to escape without harm, the blaze has likely resulted in the deaths of various other wildlife, including adders, field mice, and ground-nesting birds.
In response to the incident, the Devon and Cornwall Police have stated they are treating the fire as a possible arson attack. CWT officials expressed their deep concern for the local fauna and the environment, with mid-Cornwall reserve manager Andy Collins saying, "This arson attack is nothing but the mindless destruction of nature. Those responsible have shown no regard for the wildlife for whom the site is home, the local environment, or the wellbeing of our ponies, whose lives were placed at risk."
The Cornwall Fire Service was alerted to the fire at approximately 19:30 GMT on Thursday. During the firefighting efforts, the blaze, at one point, exhibited a front greater than 1 kilometer (0.62 miles) in length. Emergency responders dispatched seven fire engines and four Land Rovers to combat the flames.
By 23:00 GMT, fire crews reported that they had extinguished the flames, bringing some relief to the local community. Residents in nearby towns, including Newquay and Wadebridge, had reported visibility of the flames, indicating the blaze's intensity and scale.
As the investigation continues, CWT plans to assess the damage inflicted on the land before determining the most effective strategies for restoring the habitats that were harmed in the fire. This incident has raised alarms about the potential risks and consequences of deliberate fire setting, particularly in ecologically sensitive areas such as Rosenannon Downs.
Officials are urging anyone with information related to the fire to come forward. The community's involvement could be crucial in apprehending those responsible for this distressing act against nature, which has not only endangered the reserve's wildlife but has also sparked widespread concern regarding safety in the surrounding areas.
As the situation evolves, it highlights the imperative need for vigilance and protective measures to safeguard natural reserves from intentional destruction. The collective effort of the local authorities, wildlife organizations, and residents is essential in preserving the integrity of our ecosystems for future generations. The community remains hopeful that this incident can lead to greater awareness and preventive strategies that will help avert similar tragedies in the future.
