THE public have been urged to protect Britain’s wildlife as the extreme heat and drought puts unprecedented strain on the country’s green spaces.

Ancient and veteran trees have been placed under significant stress from the summer’s heatwaves, experts warned.

Alasdair Nicoll, senior arborist at north London’s Hampstead Heath, said: “Changes in leaf colour and premature leaf drop can be signs [the trees are] working hard to cope with the heat, which is why we’re monitoring conditions closely.

“Visitors can help by avoiding anything that could increase the risk of fire and treating this special landscape with care.”

Senior ecologist Adrian Brooker warned: “Hot weather affects every part of the heath’s ecosystem.”

He urged visitors to give wildlife space, keeping dogs under control, and respecting nature as his teams continue to keep a close eye on how habitats are responding to the scorching conditions.

Conservationists and police also told of the challenges of protecting animals, plants and people during the heatwaves.

It comes after Prime Minister Andy Burnham called in the military, announced a ban on disposable barbecues and warned smokers not to risk setting light to “tinderbox” Britain as he scrambled to respond to the summer heatwave and wildfires.

Teams from the City of London Corporation charity, which owns and manages Hampstead Heath, have called on visitors to avoid any activities that could increase the risk of harm to wildlife or other people as they work to protect the popular park.

Laura Botelho, manager at Golders Hill Park Zoo, at the north-west end of the heath, said that the summer had been unprecedented when it comes to the work needed to protect the animals.

It has been “probably the hardest summer with regards to prolonged heat” in her 22 years in the job, she said, adding that rearranging workloads has put strain on staff.

Hampstead Heath Constabulary, the police force responsible for patrols, enforcing byelaws, protecting wildlife and ensuring the safety of visitors, also urged visitors to take extra care.

Sgt Nathan Adjei said: “Most people enjoy the heath responsibly, but in this hot weather we’re asking everyone to take extra care: don’t light fires or barbecues, don’t swim where there are no lifeguards, and be kind to our staff and other visitors.”