How To Protect Dormice During Warm Summers: 5 Ways
A practical guide to keep hazel dormice thriving in hotter July temperatures
Dormice are experiencing a surprising bounce-back in warmer July weather, but that doesn't mean they’re safe from climate change yet. This guide shows you how to actively help hazel dormice survive the heat and maintain healthy populations. You’ll learn concrete actions you can take today in just a few minutes.
Step 1: Survey Your Garden
Start by surveying your garden for existing dormouse activity. Use the free iNaturalist app to record any sightings, noting date, time, and location. Upload photos to the platform so experts can confirm species. This baseline data helps you see where dormice are most active and plan interventions.
Step 2: Plant Dormouse-Friendly Flora
Plant a mix of hazel, oak, and hawthorn to create a year-round food supply. Hazelnuts are a key winter food, while oak acorns and hawthorn berries provide summer nutrition. Aim for at least 3–4 mature hazel shrubs per acre for adequate nesting sites. Use the 'Planting Planner' on the Forestry Commission website to map optimal spacing.
Step 3: Build or Install Nest Boxes
Nest boxes give dormice a safe nesting spot. Follow the guidelines on the Wildlife Trust's 'Dormouse Nest Box Design' PDF, which recommends a 15x15 cm interior and 20 cm height. Secure the box to a sturdy tree trunk at 1.5–2 meters off the ground. Label the box with your contact info so visitors can report sightings.
Step 4: Track and Report Sightings
Track and report sightings through the 'Dormouse Monitoring Programme' on the Forestry Commission site. Log each observation with GPS coordinates and any environmental notes. The data feeds into national conservation efforts, helping allocate resources. You can also share sightings on the iNaturalist community to get expert validation.
Step 5: Adjust Garden Management for Heat
Adjust your garden management during the hottest July days by providing shade and extra water. Use a drip irrigation system to keep ground damp without overwatering. Plant deciduous trees that create canopy cover, reducing heat stress on dormice. Monitor temperatures with a Weather Underground widget and adjust watering schedules accordingly.
Most people overlook the importance of continuous food sources; planting a staggered fruiting schedule ensures dormice have food even when hazelnuts are scarce.
By following these five steps, you’ll create a warmer, food-rich environment that boosts dormouse survival during hot summers. You’ve just turned your garden into a vital wildlife refuge, and your data will support national conservation efforts. Next, share your progress on social media to inspire others and keep the momentum going.
