|
Dormouse is a predominantly nocturnal arboreal species (spending the majority of their lifecycle in trees) most often associated with ancient woodlands and old hazel coppice. Dormouse will also use mature hedgerows especially when these are linked to suitable woodland habitat. Dormice hibernate throughout the winter and are therefore extremely vulnerable to impacts during this period. Dormouse is a European Protected Species and as such are afforded full legal protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and by the Habitat Regulations 1994. In summary, these make it an offence to damage or destroy a breeding site or resting place, intentionally or recklessly obstruct any place used for shelter or protection, deliberately, intentionally or recklessly disturb a dormouse or intentionally kill, injure or take a dormouse. Actions that are prohibited by the above legislation can be made lawful on granting of a licence by the appropriate statutory authority.
Habitat suitability surveys, including searches for distinctively gnawed nuts and seeds, can be undertaken throughout the year for dormouse. Surveys for breeding dormouse should be undertaken during the spring and summer. GreenLink Ecology Ltd is able to undertake surveys for dormouse and implement mitigation schemes for the species. If you think dormouse may be a constraint to your project, or have been asked to commission a dormouse survey in Kent, Hampshire, Surrey, Essex or other counties within the South East of England, contact us.
|
