Wildlife

Wild Dormouse Conservation and Welfare

The common dormouse is declining across the UK due to habitat loss, with individual welfare implications from hibernation disturbance and habitat fragmentation.

Key Facts

Common dormouse populations have declined by over 70% since the 1990s in the UK
Dormice hibernate for 7 months per year and are extremely sensitive to disturbance
Nest box programmes support dormouse populations where natural nest sites are scarce
Dormice are protected under UK and EU law from killing, injury, or disturbance
Hazel coppice management provides optimal dormouse habitat structure

Welfare Considerations

Dormouse hibernation disturbance causes energy drain that can be fatal, particularly in animals with insufficient fat reserves. Individual welfare during hibernation and in fragmented habitats is compromised. Conservation efforts protecting dormouse habitat directly improve individual animal welfare outcomes.

What You Can Do

Support dormouse conservation organisations and nest box programmes
Advocate for hazel coppice and hedgerow management on farms and estates
Report dormouse sightings to local mammal groups for population monitoring