Dormouse Surveys
Why do I need to consider dormice?
Hazel dormice are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) as amended and the Conservation of Species and Habitat Regulations 2017 (as amended). This legislation makes it illegal to:
- capture, kill or injure dormice
- damage or destroy a breeding or resting place used by dormice
- disturb a dormouse whilst it is in a place of shelter or protection
- obstruct access to their resting or sheltering places
- possess, sell, control or transport live or dead dormice, or parts of dormice
Where are hazel dormouse found?
Hazel dormice distribution is largely restricted to the south of England and Wales, but there are a small number of populations elsewhere in the country. They are generally found within areas of scrub, mature hedgerows and woodlands.
When do I need to consider dormice?
Dormice need to be considered when works will impact upon areas of scrub, mature hedgerows and areas of woodland in locations in the country where dormouse are known or likely to be present.
What does a survey consist of?
Initially a desktop study and walkover survey should be carried out to confirm whether there is potential for dormouse to be present.
If the initial walkover survey finds that there is the potential for dormice to use the habitats present, then more detailed survey work will be recommended for the species. The level of work required will depend on the nature of the proposed works, but can include visual searches for field signs, such as nests and opened nuts (where hazel is present) or using nest tubes and nest boxes, which are left in place over a number of months and checked regularly for dormice or evidence of nesting.
Survey is completed between April and November, while the optimum period to search for opened hazel nuts is between September and December. Nest tubes and boxes should be in place for a number of months between April and November.
What can OS Ecology provide?
OS Ecology Ltd. have knowledge and experience of undertaking dormouse surveys, impact assessment and of producing mitigation and compensation schemes.