VOLUNTEERS are being sought to help with a project to protect an internationally endangered species, of which Dartmoor and Devon are one of its most important habitats. Action for Wildlife is currently trying to identify sites of dormouse activity on the moor and is hoping West Devon residents may be able to help with its research. Some information on the distribution of dormice is already known, thanks to records provided by local people, but project leaders say the picture is still not complete. Ellie Soper, Action for Wildlife assistant project officer, said: ?Last year, records from the public provided important information and we are keen to continue expanding our knowledge of the distribution of dormice on Dartmoor.? Volunteers need no prior experience, just a willingness to spend time rooting around in hedgerows and woodlands looking for hazel nuts. By examining the nuts it is possible to tell which animal has opened the shell to get at the nut inside ? dormice leave a characteristic, evenly nibbled hole. Ms Soper said: ?Examining nuts is an excellent method of finding where dormice are in the area, as well as being an enjoyable activity while you are out and about.? Anyone who would like to take part in the survey should get in touch with Action for Wildlife, which can provide survey packs which will help them identify nuts eaten by small mammals including dormice, woodmice and voles. The packs can be downloaded from the website at http://www.actionforwildlife.org.uk">www.actionforwildlife.org.uk, requested by e-mailing [email protected]">[email protected] or by telephoning 01626 831072. The packs are also available from the High Moorland Visitor Centre at Princetown, which also holds examples of opened hazel nuts to use as reference.
