The Hazel Dormouse: A Fieldworker's Guide

Description:

Few British mammals are as captivating or as elusive as the Hazel Dormouse.

This guide is a practical, accessible introduction to surveying, identifying and handling Muscardinus avellanarius, written by four experienced dormouse fieldworkers and trainers. While resources on dormice exist, there has long been a gap for those beginning their journey in the discipline: a friendly, entry-level guide covering not only dormice themselves but also the many other species encountered during nest box and tube surveys.

The book takes readers through everything they need to know to get started: from understanding dormouse ecology, behaviour and life cycle to conducting nest box surveys, performing tube checks and handling dormice safely (for licensed workers). Guidance is also provided on identifying the other mammals, birds and invertebrates that fieldworkers regularly encounter alongside dormice.

Written with warmth and first-hand expertise, this guide is ideal for trainees, ecology students, conservation volunteers and anyone embarking on licensed dormouse work. It is equally useful for experienced practitioners looking for a resource to share with those they train.

Warning: dormice will warm your heart and melt your soul so proceed with care.

* The first dedicated entry-level field guide to surveying, identifying and handling the Hazel Dormouse.

* Covers identification, behaviour, life cycle, basic survey protocols and also other species you may encounter in the field.

* Written by three experienced dormouse fieldworkers/trainers and an enthusiastic trainee, combining first-hand experience with an accessible, encouraging style.