First baby dormice born in Bradgate Park conservation milestone
"It's really good news," said Holly Woodward, the Bradgate Park Trust's learning and engagement officer."There may be more [baby dormice] out there that we haven't seen yet, but it's great to know that they are actually breeding."
Hazel dormice are a native rodent to the UK and are the only one with a distinctive furry tail, and while they can live in many habitats, they favour woodlands and hedgerows.However, the dormouse population has declined by 70% nationally since 2000, and the species is now extinct in 20 English counties, according to a 2023 report.In a statement on social media, the trust said: "This milestone is not just a win for conservation but a real testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved in their release and ongoing monitoring.
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