1,200-Year-Old 'Robin Hood' Oak Tree in Sherwood Forest Has Died 😢

The Major Oak, one of Britain's largest and most iconic oak trees, has died. With a crown spanning 28 meters, a trunk circumference of 11 meters, and an estimated weight of 23 tons, the legendary tree in Sherwood Forest produced no new leaves this spring. Conservation organization RSPB estimates the oak was roughly 1,200 years old. Forest managers say the tree succumbed to a combination of soil compaction from millions of visitors over the years and successive hot, dry summers. The record heatwave of 2022, when the UK hit 40 degrees Celsius for the first time, further weakened the ancient oak. Support beams had been installed under its branches previously. The Major Oak has long been linked to the legend of Robin Hood, who folklore says stole from the rich and gave to the poor in Sherwood Forest. While the tree has died, it will remain standing in place and could stay upright for decades or even centuries. Saplings grown from its acorns have already been planted around the world.