Winter 2026 is forecast to be an exceptionally challenging season. With a 'super' El Niño developing, this winter raises concerns about increasingly unsettled weather, bringing powerful storms, heavy rainfall and rough seas. For Scilly's wildlife, this could mean a particularly tough winter. Precious habitats may be damaged, coastlines reshaped, and landscapes transformed. Already this autumn we have experienced two storms, Austin and Boelo, which have resulted in fallen trees and disturbed habitats. In the coming months, Scilly's wildlife will face the increased challenge of finding food, shelter, and safe places to thrive. 

Winter is always an important time for conservation at the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust. Our rangers and volunteers continue their essential work caring for habitats, clearing gorse and bracken, taking care of our conservation grazing herds and preparing the islands for the seasons ahead. This year, however, we face additional challenges. We need to be ready to respond to storm damage. We need to be prepared to protect our islands' landscapes, habitats and wildlife which come under threat from devastating weather. 

Your support will help us be ready. 

Give Scilly's wildlife a winter lifeline. Every donation will enable us to continue protecting the islands' unique natural environment and help the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust remain financially resilient as we respond to storm damage when severe weather strikes. 

Please donate today and help us protect Scilly's wildlife, restore damaged habitats, and keep Scilly special.