Hazel dormice are protected under national and international legislation. They are native and localised in the UK, rare and vulnerable to extinction therefore protection for hazel dormice is vital. They are a conservation priority species in the UK and a special licence  is required to disturb them.

Habitat loss is the main reason for their numbers declining. Protect their habitat of hazel trees and allow brambles to grow, leave ivy on trees and leave log piles where they are. As always, don’t tidy up the woods.