Hazel Dormouse Welfare and Habitat

The hazel dormouse is one of Britain's rarest mammals, hibernating for 7 months annually and depending on connected woodland and hedgerow habitat.

Key Facts

UK dormouse populations declined by 51% between 1993 and 2014
Dormice hibernate from October to April, losing half their body weight over winter
Dormice spend virtually their entire lives in the tree canopy, rarely touching the ground
Habitat fragmentation prevents dormice from moving between woodland patches
Climate change is affecting hibernation timing with welfare consequences from early emergence in cold conditions

Welfare Considerations

Dormouse welfare is affected by habitat fragmentation preventing access to seasonal food resources, energy depletion during unsuccessful hibernation, and climate change disrupting hibernation timing. Dormice that emerge from hibernation prematurely due to warm spells face cold conditions without adequate food, depleting fat reserves and causing death by starvation. Woodland connectivity management enabling dormice to move between habitat patches is essential for individual welfare and population viability. Conservation efforts including nest tube installation and connectivity planting directly benefit individual dormice.

What You Can Do

Support dormouse nest tube surveys and conservation projects in your region
Advocate for hedgerow connectivity between woodland fragments
Plant hazel, honeysuckle, and bramble to provide dormouse food and cover in gardens
Donate to People's Trust for Endangered Species dormouse conservation programmes