This introductory-level course will introduce you to this charming creature. The dormouse course will include checking nest boxes and, hopefully, observing them while your tutor handles them. In the afternoon, you will have a classroom session where you will learn about dormouse ecology, dormouse conservation and dormouse survey techniques. The course is especially relevant to consultancy as dormouse surveys can be part of the summer survey season. You can also have parts of your Dormouse Training Log signed off, so you can start working towards your dormouse survey licence. 

During this one-day course, you will:

• Learn about the dormouse ecology
• Observe your tutor handling dormice (no guarantees we will find them)**
• Learn how to identify different types of nests and chewed nuts
• Learn about dormouse surveying and monitoring techniques

The course is part classroom and part field-based. You will visit a private woodland in the morning to check dormouse nest boxes with your tutor as part of the NDMP, and in the afternoon you will have a classroom session to learn more about dormice. Please note that during the course, you will be required to walk up to 3 km on uneven ground, so please be sure that you are capable of this before booking.

**There is no guaranteed handling on this course.**

“Value for money, very enjoyable, went home feeling I had learned more than enough to take forward further work.”

“Fantastic opportunity to gain more theory and practical knowledge about one of the UK’s most adorable species!”

Course Details

Location:

The course will be held in Ropley in Hampshire. You will visit a private woodland, and the classroom session will be in Ropley Parish Hall. 

Venue directions and details of local accommodation are provided within the course after booking.

What to bring:

You will need to bring a packed lunch and drink. Further details about appropriate equipment and clothing will be provided within the course after booking.

Timings:

The course will start at 8:30 am and will finish at around 4 pm.

Your tutor will be Dr Hester Wain.