Experts say the Major Oak, an ancient tree in Sherwood Forest near Nottinghamshire that is popularly linked to Robin Hood, has died. The tree, often described as having stood for more than 1,000 years, has been widely noted for being hollow and for the folklore of it sheltering Robin Hood and his “merry men.” Reporting from multiple outlets says the tree is now leafless, indicating it has stopped growing. The RSPB, which helps manage the woodland where the Major Oak stands, is described as saying the tree has been in decline for some years, suggesting a gradual deterioration rather than a sudden event. BBC News and other coverage describe it as the long-lived Major Oak at the centre of Sherwood Forest’s best-known landmark. While outlets differ in emphasis, they broadly agree on the same points: the Major Oak is leafless, experts believe it has died, it has been associated with a thousand-year history, and its health has been worsening over time with the site managed by the RSPB.