Acer Ecology’s fully licensed ecologists are well placed to carry out dormouse surveys across Devon.
Dormice are fully protected under UK and European law and consequently it is an offence to kill, capture, or disturb them, or to damage their habitats.
If a proposed development is likely to affect dormice, then a European Protected Species Licence will be required prior to the commencement of works. The licence application process will require the agreement of a method statement which will ensure that dormouse can continue to occupy the site after the development has been completed. If dormouse habitat loss is unavoidable as a result of a development, mitigation will involve phased clearance, coupled with the translocation or replanting of trees and shrubs of similar extent to those lost. Very occasionally it will be necessary to capture and transfer dormice away from the development site to a pre-prepared receptor area.
Have you been asked to undertake a dormouse survey?
Our licensed dormouse specialists are experienced in surveying, European Protected Species licensing, as well as mitigation design and implementation. We have the capacity to carry out surveys across Devon, including Exeter, Newton Abbot, Salcombe, Barnstaple, Tiverton, Okehampton, Chagford, Ivybridge, Tavistock, Launceston, Holsworthy, Chumleigh, Sidmouth, Paignton and Ilfracombe, as well as Exmoor and Dartmoor National Parks. We can also serve the surrounding counties of Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset.
There are three main methods of surveying for dormouse, comprising nest box, tube surveys and nut searches. Nest box and tube surveys involve erecting nest boxes or tubes in suitable dormouse habitats such as hedgerows, scrub and woodland. Dormouse shelter and nest in the boxes and tubes. The nut search method involves checking hazelnuts for the distinctive pattern left by dormouse as they feed on the nuts.
Dormouse surveys can be time-consuming, as nest box and tube surveys can take up to six months to complete from March to October. Nut searches can be undertaken throughout the year but produce the most reliable results between September and November.
For more information about dormouse surveys, or any of our other ecological services call us on 029 2065 0331, or email enquiries@acerecology.co.uk.
More information on the hazel dormouse can be found in our dormouse article.
