CGO Ecology has donated 50 dormouse nest tubes and 10 footprint tunnels to the Countryside Restoration Trust to enable a survey of their Bere Marsh Farm site in Dorset.

Bere Marsh Farm lies close to the village of Shillingstone, with the River Stour running alongside it. Just beyond is Hambledon Hill – a place of fascinating history, botany and geology.

Andy Fale from the Countryside Restoration Trust explains: “There are dormouse records from a wood bordering the farm, and we want to see if there are any on the farm. The donation from CGO Ecology is very much appreciated, and we are going to keep them posted with our findings.”

The hazel dormouse (Muscardinus avellanarius) has declined in the UK by over 50% in the last 20% years. It is strictly protected by law.

The dormouse tubes are often secured with plastic cable-ties, but CGO Ecology ensured that these ones will be tied with natural twine in order to avoid single-use plastic.  

Director of CGO Ecology, Chris Gleed-Owen, says of the donation: “I have known Andy for over 20 years, and in his new role at The Countryside Restoration Trust, he is doing amazing work promoting wildlife-friendly farming. We’re keen to support innovative projects like this, particularly in our home county of Dorset.”