Wildlife Welfare

Wild Dormouse Nest Box Programs

Hazel dormice benefit significantly from nest box provision which supplements declining natural nest sites in managed woodland.

Key Facts

Dormouse populations have declined by 51% in England since the 1990s
Loss of coppiced woodland and hedgerow connectivity are primary habitat challenges
Nest tubes and boxes provide shelter used for breeding and hibernation in monitored populations
Licensed dormouse monitoring programs allow population assessment and welfare data collection
Dormice are fully protected - any handling requires licensed surveys by trained professionals

Welfare Considerations

Dormouse nest box provision directly improves welfare and survival odds for individual animals by providing secure nesting sites that declining woodland management no longer provides naturally.

What You Can Do

Support dormouse nest box schemes in suitable woodland habitats
Donate to People's Trust for Endangered Species dormouse conservation programs
Advocate for woodland management maintaining the dormouse food plants and nesting habitat