The dormouse is making a comeback across the UK
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The dormouse is making a comeback across the UK thanks to the work of a Kent-based wildlife charity.
The Wildwood Trust charity, near Herne Common, has been taking part in a captive breeding programme to help re-establish it in other parts of the UK.
Dormice bred at the centre are now living in Yorkshire, Cambridgeshire and the North Midlands.
Conservation officer Hazel Ryan said the lack of coppice woodlands and hedgerows were a threat to the animal.
"The dormice are getting isolated in very small woodlands, and are unable to survive there," she said.
However, she pointed out that Kent was doing very well for dormice.
The population in the county is well distributed and is regularly monitored by the Wildwood Trust.
"They need nice long warm summers so that they have enough time to breed and put on enough weight before hibernation in the winter," Ms Ryan said.
The charity is holding a Dormouse Day on 1 August where visitors will be given the chance to see the elusive creatures close up.
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They need nice long warm summers so that they have enough time to breed and put on enough weight before hibernation in the winter
