Protected Species Surveys
Dormouse Surveys
Dormice are strictly protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017, making it illegal to capture, injure, kill, disturb, or damage their breeding sites and resting places.
Why do I need a dormouse survey?
The primary purpose of dormouse surveys is to determine presence or likely absence, assess population size where relevant, and understand habitat usage. This is essential to inform ecological impact assessments, develop suitable mitigation strategies and enhance habitat connectivity.
When are dormouse surveys required?
Dormouse surveys are required when proposed developments or land management activities could impact suitable habitat for hazel dormice. This includes woodland, scrub, hedgerows, and occasionally other habitats such as conifer plantations and reedbeds. Surveys are essential to inform planning applications, ensure compliance with legal protections, and minimise habitat loss and fragmentation.
The following require dormouse surveys:
The following require dormouse surveys:
Residential and commercial developments impacting woodland or hedgerows.
Infrastructure projects such as road, rail, and pipeline schemes.
Habitat restoration or management schemes.
What can I expect to see from my dormouse surveys?
Possible Outcomes
No dormice detected
No further action required, or minimal mitigation to ensure habitat doesn’t become more suitable prior to construction.
Dormice detected
Additional surveys or habitat assessments may be required to establish population size.
Mitigation required
Development of a suitable strategy to avoid, reduce, or compensate for impacts. This could include timing of works, precautionary working method statements and supervised vegetation clearance.
Licensing and Monitoring
Monitoring. Preparation of a European Protected Species Licence application where necessary, including detailed mitigation and monitoring plans.
Survey Process
Our dormouse surveys follow best practice guidelines and include a combination of methods to detect presence, assess populations, and inform appropriate mitigation measures.
Habitat assessment
Initial habitat assessments are conducted to identify areas of suitable dormouse habitat. This involves evaluating woodland, scrub, hedgerows, and other vegetative structures that provide food, shelter, and connectivity for dormice.
Presence/Absence Surveys
Presence/absence surveys are undertaken using:
Nest Tubes
Deployed in suitable habitat between April to November and checked monthly or bi-monthly.
A standard of 50 tubes is set out per site.
A scoring system is applied to ensure adequate survey effort.
Nut Searches
Undertaken between September and December.
Dormice leave characteristic smooth-edged holes in hazelnuts, which distinguishes them from gnawing by other small mammals.
Footprint Tunnels (Supplementary Technique)
Footprint tunnels can be used to detect foraging dormice moving through habitats.
Animal-friendly ink pads capture tracks, providing evidence of presence without relying on nest building.
Further surveys: population monitoring and impact assessment
Where dormice are detected, further surveys may be required to assess population size, distribution, and habitat usage. Nest boxes may also be used for population monitoring and as a habitat enhancement measure. Impact assessments are then conducted to inform mitigation strategies and ensure compliance with legislation.
Why developers choose Ethos?
A wealth of knowledge
On conducting dormouse surveys and tailoring project specific strategies for mitigation.
Experienced licensed ecologists
Our team includes licensed ecologists trained in dormouse survey techniques and habitat assessments.
Comprehensive mitigation strategies
We provide tailored strategies for projects where dormice are present, ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
Innovative techniques
Utilising supplementary methods such as footprint tunnels to enhance detection rates.
Pragmatic Approach
Providing practical solutions that balance ecological needs with development objectives.
Extensive Experience
Supporting a wide range of development projects with effective dormouse surveys and mitigation plans
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for your project
We provide tailored solutions to help you deliver high-quality, sustainable green spaces. Contact us today to discuss your needs. Whether you require:
Biodiversity net gain
Policy advice
Full strategy
Ecological assessments.
