Endangered dormice on farm signal healthy landscape
Dormice are detected on a farm near Bridport during surveys by the Countryside Regeneration Trust.
A farm in Marshwood, Dorset is providing a promising sign for endangered dormice, a species considered vulnerable to extinction. Babers Farm, managed by the Countryside Regeneration Trust (CRT), has been actively working to improve biodiversity and nature habitats. The CRT installed footprint tunnels along hedgerows and woodland edges, resulting in nine tunnels recording dormouse footprints.
Hazel dormice require diverse woodland, species-rich hedgerows, and connected habitats that offer year-round food and shelter. CRT conservation officer Ruth Moss expressed delight at finding evidence of dormice on the farm. The CRT continues to survey other properties, with surveys set to progress into November in Surrey. The organization aims to build a clearer picture of dormouse populations across its farms to guide future habitat management.
Dormice populations have significantly declined since the 19th century due to habitat loss from the disappearance of traditional skills and climate change disrupting hibernation patterns.
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