Hazel Dormouse Surveys
What are Hazel Dormouse Surveys?
Hazel dormice are a legally protected species in the UK, with protection covering both the animals and their breeding and resting places. Development or land management works that affect suitable woodland, hedgerows or scrub habitats may therefore require dormouse surveys to assess presence and inform appropriate mitigation. Early assessment is important, as dormouse surveys are seasonally constrained and can influence project timescales.
Survey Methodology & Monitoring
Dormouse surveys typically begin with an assessment of habitat suitability and connectivity, focusing on the quality of habitat and links to surrounding areas. Where habitat is considered suitable and there is a reasonable likelihood of dormice being present, further survey work will be required to establish presence or absence.
Detailed dormouse surveys involve the installation of nest boxes or tubes within suitable vegetation at regular intervals across the site. These are then checked on a monthly basis throughout the survey season to look for dormice or evidence of dormouse nesting. Surveys must be carried out over a sufficient period to provide robust results and comply with current guidance.
The findings of our hazel dormouse surveys are presented in a clear and comprehensive report, setting out survey results, assessing the potential impacts of proposed works and providing proportionate recommendations to support the planning or delivery of works.
Why choose Whitcher Wildlife for Hazel Dormouse Surveys?
Whitcher Wildlife Ltd has extensive experience in all aspects of hazel dormouse survey and mitigation with ecologists holding licences to survey for hazel dormice across England and Wales, as well as European Protected Species Mitigation licences, allowing us to support projects through both assessment and licenced mitigation where required.
Dormouse work can be complex and programme-critical, and our team understands the importance of early, proportionate advice. We take a pragmatic approach, starting with habitat suitability and connectivity assessments and guiding clients through any further survey requirements, mitigation design and reporting to ensure projects remain compliant while progressing efficiently.