The 5 ‘lost’ wildlife species returning from extinction to the UK – The Big Issue

The future for many of the UK’s once abundant wildlife species is looking relatively bleak, nationally. But in a few small pockets of the country, a different story is beginning to unfold.  

Dormice

In many counties in the UK, dormice have been declared completely extinct. But at Calke Abbey, Derbyshire, a reintroduction programme has taken place, and their population is increasing. Before they could be reintroduced, the National Forest team collaborated with the People’s Trust for Endangered Species to create an environment where dormice could thrive.  

Studies have shown that different plants help sustain dormice for different reasons. Hazel trees provide an important food source, as does honeysuckle, which also creates a route for the tiny mammals to climb into the trees via their hanging tendrils. Bramble cover is also crucial, both for food and protection for nest sites. They also need natural wildlife corridors to travel to different areas, so the team worked with landowners to develop hedgerows linking habitats.  

Calke Abbey was chosen by the People’s Trust for Endangered Species as a suitable area for dormice thanks to the work of the National Forest who manage the land. Without these two organisations working in tandem, the dormice would not have been able to return. 

People’s Trust for Endangered Species

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