Dormice Get Released Into the Wild

On July 12, 2025, over 20 endangered hazel dormice (Muscardinus avellanarius) were released into the woods within the Bradgate Park Trust estate in Leicestershire, England. The hazel dormouse population has dropped by around 70% because of habitat loss and farming that may harm their food because of pesticides and other chemicals.

Hazel dormice are tiny caramel-colored nocturnal rodents that typically live in the UK and Europe with furry tails and big eyes. They love the woods, woodlands, and hazelnuts and hibernate for around 6 months every year. Luckily, in the UK and Europe, they are legally protected, and they cannot be handled without a license.

First starting in the 1900s, these fuzzy creatures were given reintroduction programs so they could go back to their homes once the process was complete. It takes five steps: site selection, captive breeding, soft release, freedom, and monitoring. Site selection is when a controlled environment is selected based on its quality and safety for the dormice. It is important to pick the right place because dormice are extremely sensitive and picky about where they want to live. This ensures a safe place from predators and other dangerous plants. Next, is captive breeding. This is when the dormice are bred in a facility and can repopulate themselves without any doubt of danger.

The next step, a soft release, is when the dormice are strong and healthy but are not released into the wild immediately. They are introduced to the wild with boundaries around the perimeter while adapting to their new habitat. After two weeks, the hazel dormice are finally released into the wild, where they can build a home and scavenge for food. However, they are still being monitored by nest boxes or sensitive motion cameras. Once this 5-step process is complete, the hazel dormice can roam freely in the wild, caring for their loved ones and building a strong foundation for their homes.

Fortunately, people have noticed these endangered species and are trying to help. For example, these reintroduction programs release them back into the wild where shrubs and trees are well-suited for their habitat. Even if one does not live in the UK or Europe, they can help by raising awareness of these almost extinct adorable animals and avoiding pesticides so the dormice do not consume them.

we should strive to give them the cozy, wild lives they are truly worthy of.