We are well placed to carry out dormice surveys in Exeter, Devon.
Our fully 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 and surrounding areas, including Plymouth, Weymouth, Torquay, Cullompton, Newton Abbot, Okehampton, Kingsbridge, and Axminster, as well as the surrounding counties of Somerset and Dorset.
Survey Methods for Dormice
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.
The main survey method we use comprises a ‘dormouse nest-tube survey’, whereby specially-constructed artificial nesting or roosting tubes/ boxes are fastened underneath horizontal branches in areas of suitable habitat using garden wire. They are left in place over a period of several months. The standard survey methodology requires the deployment of at least 50 nest tubes and uses an index of probability to calculate a survey effort score. Nest tubes are most frequently occupied in May, August and September and so these months score highest.
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.
Dormice and the Law
Dormice are fully protected under the 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 dormouse, 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.
For more information about dormouse surveys, please call us on 02920 650 331, or email enquiries@acerecology.co.uk.
More information on the hazel dormouse can be found in our dormouse article.
