Dormouse Surveys and Conservation

Dormice (Muscardinus avellanarius) are a European Protected Species and their habitats are protected under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 (as amended) as well as the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), It is an offence to:

• deliberately capture, injure, kill, or disturb dormice;
• intentionally or recklessly obstruct access to any structure/place used for shelter or protection; or ·
• damage or destroy a breeding site or resting place

HalpinRobbins have experienced ecologists capable of conducting a range of dormouse surveys in England and Wales; each survey is tailored to meet our clients' needs and project requirements.

If a proposed site or project contains woodland, hedgerows or dense scrub or is adjacent to such features and design plans show an impact to these habitats it’s likely that a dormouse survey will be required. This is usually determined during a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal.

Nest tube surveys are undertaken over a number of visits during the period April – November. Nest tubes comprise approximately 50 small, corrugated plastic tubes that are placed within suitable habitat across a site. Surveys follow guidance set out within The Dormouse Conservation Handbook (Bright et al. 2006).

Points are calculated for the different months’ tubes have been installed (with September being an optimal month (7points) and April being sub optimal (1 point)), to achieve a total score providing confidence of likely absence within a site, or to assist with population assessments once presence has been determined. Due to the time scales required when undertaking dormouse nest tube surveys it’s advisable to commence surveys at the earliest opportunity ensuring minimal impacts on project timescales.

Where dormice are present on a site and proposed works will result in damage or destruction to habitat identified as supporting dormice, a suitable licence from Natural England will be required.

HalpinRobbins has licenced ecologists experienced in undertaking surveys across a variety of sites. Our consultants have worked on projects ranging from major housing, road and rail developments through to smaller private works and conservation projects.

For a better idea about our projects and work involving dormice see our case studies or to find out how we can support your project contact us at info@halpinrobbins.co.uk.

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