DORMICE have been found nesting in woodland at Roadford Lake. New data has revealed that this nationally declining species reside at the lake which is managed by charity South West Lakes Trust. The trust has undertaken surveys at a number of its sites around the south west to identify the presence of these rare and endangered species, and the data is being used to make management recommendations which favour these creatures. Data is also sent to the National Dormouse Monitoring Network and English Nature to record and map the species national distribution. The dormouse has been declining nationally mainly due to habitat loss and Devon seems to be one of the remaining strongholds. Dormice are a protected species under the Countryside Act 1981 and managing the land surrounding the lake in a sustainable manner has encouraged them to make a home at Roadford Lake where they are warmly welcomed. Paul Gregory, who works for South West Lakes Trust and is a licensed dormouse holder, said: ?Dormice were once common all over the country and habitat loss is mainly responsible for their decline. ?They are essentially a woodland species. However, they are now being found in some unusual areas, such as coastal scrub, coniferous plantations and Culm grassland.? If you would like to know more about dormice or how you can volunteer for South West Lakes Trust, you can contact Paul Gregory on 01822 855700 gregory.p@byconnect. com