Rare hazel dormice return to the Forest in Leicestershire in landmark conservation effort

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More than 20 dormice were released into a carefully selected woodland on the Bradgate Park Trust estate – part of a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a National Nature Reserve. The reintroduction is the result of a long-term collaboration between wildlife charities, conservation groups and land managers, including People’s Trust for Endangered Species (PTES), Bradgate Park Trust, Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust, Leicestershire & Rutland Mammal Group, ourselves, and Twycross Zoo. 

This is the second dormouse reintroduction within the Forest. The first, at Calke Abbey in Derbyshire in 2023, marked the species’ return to the Forest after a long absence. Together, these reintroductions form part of a wider ambition to rebuild the ecological richness of this landscape, restoring healthy habitats and reconnecting them so that wildlife can move more freely and populations can grow over time. 

Hazel dormice are classed as ‘vulnerable’ on the IUCN Red List for Britain’s Mammals and have suffered a 70% decline nationally since 2000. Once widespread, they are now extinct in 20 English counties and are largely restricted to fragmented woodland and hedgerow habitats. Their dramatic decline is closely linked to habitat loss, poor management, and the impacts of climate change. 

The woodland at Bradgate Park was chosen for its mix of ancient and restored habitats, and for the commitment to careful woodland management that supports a diversity of native wildlife. It provides the right structure, food sources and shelter that dormice need to survive. This long-term stewardship is essential not just for dormice, but for many other species that depend on connected, resilient habitats. 

The reintroduction forms part of a national programme to support species recovery. Captive-bred dormice undergo strict health checks and an eight-week quarantine before release. Once at their new woodland site, they are given time to acclimatise in soft-release enclosures, with ongoing support from trained volunteers who monitor their progress and provide food and shelter as they adapt. Eventually, the cages are removed and the dormice are free to explore their new home. 

This approach combines the best of science, conservation practice and community involvement – all of which are central to the Forest’s aims. By creating a joined-up landscape where nature and people can thrive side by side, we are helping to secure the long-term future of species like the hazel dormouse.  

This is the Forest at its most powerful — a national beacon of hope for nature’s recovery, showing what’s possible when people and landscapes come together to build a greener, more sustainable future. 

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