Hazel Dormouse Surveys

Hazel dormouse surveys are a key requirement for development projects that have the potential to impact suitable dormouse habitat. They help to identify the presence or likely absence of hazel dormice and ensure their habitats are properly considered and protected during the planning process.

Why are hazel dormice surveyed?

The hazel dormouse is a European Protected Species under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (as amended), with additional protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended).

It is an offence to deliberately kill, injure, capture, or disturb a hazel dormouse. It is also an offence to damage or destroy a breeding site or resting place, or to obstruct access to such sites. The species is also a Species of Principal Importance (SPI).

When do I need to have a hazel dormouse survey?

A hazel dormouse survey may be required where a proposed development has the potential to affect suitable dormouse habitat. This is typically assessed during an ecological appraisal as part of the planning process.

Hazel dormice are most commonly associated with well connected hedgerows, broadleaved woodland, and scrub habitats, particularly where there is a diverse understory providing food and nesting opportunities. Surveys are usually recommended where these habitats are present on site or within the surrounding area and could be impacted by works such as clearance, fragmentation, or changes in management.

A survey may be required if:

The site contains suitable hedgerows, woodland, or scrub habitat
There are habitat corridors that connect to nearby suitable woodland
The development involves vegetation removal or habitat disturbance
There are historic records of dormouse presence in the local area
The site forms part of a wider connected landscape suitable for dormice

Dormouse surveys are typically seasonal and involve a programme of checks using specialist nest tubes, nest boxes or footprint tunnels over an extended period, between April and November. The need for surveys, and their scope, will depend on the quality, connectivity, and location of the habitat present.

Where dormice are confirmed or strongly suspected, further assessment and appropriate mitigation or licensing may be required before development can proceed.

What does Abrehart Ecology offer?

At Abrehart Ecology we offer professional, skilled, and efficient hazel dormouse survey work, including habitat assessments and full presence/absence surveys using nest tubes and other standard survey methods. We undertake in house fieldwork and expert report writing with our licensed ecologists. We can also support with the preparation and submission of hazel dormouse mitigation licence applications where required.