Ancient 'Robin Hood' tree is dead, experts say

The Major Oak, an ancient tree in Sherwood Forest with legendary ties to Robin Hood, is believed by experts to have died. This iconic oak, estimated to have stood for up to 1,200 years, is considered one of Britain's largest oak trees. Conservationists worked to protect the tree, which has drawn millions of visitors over its lifetime, but it had been in decline in recent years.

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), which manages the forest, stated that after the tree's first spring without new leaves this year, scientific experts concluded the Major Oak had died. While the exact cause remains difficult to determine, the RSPB suggests a combination of factors contributed significantly. These include years of well-intentioned structural interventions and extensive human activity around the tree.

The effects of climate change, such as recent heatwaves and droughts, have compounded the natural challenges the tree faced due to its advanced age. The RSPB confirmed that the Major Oak will remain standing in the forest as a monument for people and wildlife. Saplings from the tree have also been planted across the world.

Legend has it that the outlaw Robin Hood used the Major Oak's hollow trunk, caused by fungi, as his hideout. The tree acquired its name "Major" after being mentioned in a 1790 book by Major Hayman Rooke, a former British Army soldier. This mention prompted the first waves of tourism to the forest and the "world-famous" tree. Legendary actor Dame Judi Dench, known for her love of ancient oak trees, has paid tribute to the Major Oak, calling it an inspiration for countless stories, poems, paintings, and people for over 1,000 years.

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The Major Oak has provided inspiration for countless stories, poems, paintings and people for more than 1,000 years - all the while itself teeming with life and providing a home to an enormous range of wildlife.