Wildlife

UK Dormouse Conservation and Woodland Connectivity

Conservation of hazel dormice in UK woodland and hedgerow habitats and their connectivity needs.

Key Facts

Hazel dormouse populations have declined by 70% since the 1990s
Dormice are highly arboreal and move through connected woody vegetation
Hedgerow removal creates barriers to dormouse movement and population connectivity
Nest tube monitoring programmes track population distribution and density
Dormice hibernate from October to April and are highly sensitive to mild winter weather

Welfare Considerations

Dormice face welfare risks from habitat fragmentation and isolation of small populations, with woodland connectivity management directly improving survival prospects.

What You Can Do

Support People's Trust for Endangered Species dormouse conservation
Install dormouse nest tubes in suitable woodland habitat
Advocate for hedgerow connectivity requirements in planning and agricultural policy