Thanks to a call from a member of the public, the fire brigade responded swiftly, arriving with four fire engines and an all-terrain vehicle at around 5pm. Crews remained on site until 7pm, dampening down any hot spots. 

We’re very grateful to the fire service for their swift and professional response. Their quick action prevented what could have been an even more devastating outcome.   

A member of staff attended the scene and returned this morning to assess damage to the reserve. The fire burned through the surface vegetation including grasses, heather and bramble, but fortunately didn't penetrate down into the peat. A small section of the boardwalk was also affected. While we're relieved the blaze was contained and the damage minimal, we are deeply concerned about the further damage that could have been done to this rare peatland and the species that depend on it, had the fire not been caught early.  

The fire appears to have been caused by unintentional arson due to carelessness. Incidents like this are a stark reminder of just how vulnerable these habitats are and how vital it is that we all play a part in protecting them.  

Ben Patterson, Reserves and Land Manager says:   

“Danes Moss is the largest lowland raised bog in Cheshire. It’s one of the scarcest and most threatened habitats in the UK and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The reserve is home to a whole host of dragonflies, damselflies, butterflies and common lizards and is loved by local residents. We’re so grateful to the member of the public who alerted the fire service so quickly, preventing the fire from being a lot worse and doing more damage.”  

The growing threat of wildfires  

Wildfires are a growing threat to the natural world, especially as climate change brings hotter, drier summers and more extreme weather. These fires don’t just damage the land, they put entire ecosystems and the wildlife that depend on them at serious risk.   

We urge all visitors to help protect Danes Moss and other vulnerable landscapes by following these simple but essential guidelines:  

• Pack a picnic, not a BBQ – avoid bringing disposable barbecues or starting open fires anywhere on nature reserves and other wildlife sites.
• Never discard cigarettes or matches – always extinguish them properly.
• Take all litter home – even glass bottles and cans can start fires in dry conditions.
• If you see smoke or flames, keep a safe distance and call 999 immediately.  

Protecting Danes Moss and other rare habitats requires vigilance from all of us. By understanding the risks and following simple safety measures, visitors can help prevent future wildfires and support the recovery of this precious landscape for generations to come.  

For more information on how climate change is impacting our wildlife and habitats, including the increasing threat of wildfires, please see the Wildlife Trusts’ Changing Nature report.  

Donate to help protect Danes Moss and other vulnerable habitats.  

Protecting rare habitats like Danes Moss takes time, effort, and resources. If you’d like to help us care for these special places, please consider making a donation here.