Wildlife Welfare

Wild Dormouse Hibernation and Population Welfare

The dormouse is one of the UK's most vulnerable small mammals, facing population declines linked to habitat loss and climate change effects on hibernation.

Key Facts

UK dormouse populations have declined by over 70% since the 1990s
Dormice hibernate for 7 months of the year and are susceptible to premature arousal
Warm winters caused by climate change disrupt hibernation with fatal consequences
Coppice woodland management is critical for dormouse habitat
Nest box programmes support dormouse populations where natural nesting is limited

Welfare Considerations

Dormice woken from hibernation by warm winter weather deplete fat reserves and face starvation before spring food becomes available. This climate-driven welfare impact is happening across the dormouse's range. Habitat restoration and nest box provision improve individual dormouse welfare by providing appropriate environments for successful hibernation and breeding.

What You Can Do

Support dormouse conservation through the People's Trust for Endangered Species
Advocate for coppice woodland management in ancient woodland
Report dormouse nest boxes to local dormouse monitoring schemes