Leigh Woods’ Dormouse Joins National Effort Amid 70% Decline

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Rare hazel dormouse 'Leigh' selected from Bristol's Leigh Woods joins vital national breeding programme to save endangered species.

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Britain's hazel dormouse population faces devastating 70% decline since 2000, pushing species to 'Vulnerable' status on IUCN Red List.

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Habitat loss, poor woodland management, and climate change threaten these protected creatures across UK landscapes.

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Leigh Woods maintains thriving dormouse population through traditional coppicing methods, creating ideal habitats on 15-20 year cycles.

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Licensed experts carefully extracted dormouse 'Leigh' following strict protocols to support genetic diversity in breeding programme.

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Wildwood Trust provides specialized care with outdoor enclosures, specific diet including nuts, seeds, flowers, fruit and insects.

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If Leigh produces a litter, young dormice will undergo health checks at ZSL and Paignton Zoo before woodland release.

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People's Trust for Endangered Species coordinates reintroduction efforts alongside habitat management and population monitoring.

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Coppicing creates temporary open spaces, encourages ground flora growth, and provides sustainable wood supply in woodlands.

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Only specially trained, licensed handlers can interact with dormice after years of ecological training due to legal protection status.

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