Wildlife Conservation

Hazel Dormouse Conservation and Welfare

The hazel dormouse has declined by over 70% in the UK since 1995 due to habitat loss, raising both conservation and individual animal welfare concerns.

Key Facts

Hazel dormice are the only native British mouse to hibernate
They spend up to 9 months of the year in hibernation
Populations have declined by 72% in England since 1995
They require a mosaic of hazel coppice, mature woodland, and scrubby edge habitats
Licensed translocation projects have established dormice in previously suitable sites

Welfare Considerations

Hazel dormice face welfare challenges in degraded habitats: insufficient food for pre-hibernation fat deposition means dormice enter winter underweight and may die during hibernation. Habitat fragmentation isolates populations and increases road mortality risk during dispersal. Successful conservation improves both population viability and individual welfare by restoring habitats that allow natural life histories to be completed successfully.

What You Can Do

Support the People's Trust for Endangered Species Dormouse Programme
Participate in National Dormouse Monitoring Programme volunteer recording
Advocate for hazel coppice management on suitable sites
Create or maintain hazel coppice habitat on rural properties
Report dormouse sightings to the national recording scheme through local county recorders