DORMICE will sleep soundly this winter as the Woodland Trust is supporting local volunteers to provide nest boxes in Tramlines Wood on the edge of Okehampton's Simmons Park.

One of Britain's most endangered mammals, the dormouse needs native habitats to survive and the woodlands on the northern fringe of Dartmoor appear to be quite a stronghold for the species.

Lead volunteer Matt Parkins and professional ecologist Leo Gubert, who both live in Okehampton, have a keen interest in wildlife and wanted to do something proactive to help the local dormice. 

Matt said: 'There is a continuous belt of woodland stretching from Meldon to Fatherford which provides a fantastic range for dormice to forage and feed. 

'Nest boxes give the dormice places to shelter, hibernate and breed and enable us to check up on their activity.'

The nest boxes were made by local craftsman Jim White, of West Country Woodland Gardens, using locally sourced materials and are specially designed for the endearing rodents.

Woodland Trust area manager Dave Rickwood, also an Okehampton resident, said: 'We're fortunate to benefit from the presence of this rare species on our doorstep. It's easy to be blasé about these fantastic little animals but they are a real indicator of the health and richness of the woodlands around the town.

'I am keen that residents should go out and enjoy the woods but if you do see a box please avoid going too close.'

To find out more about Tramlines Wood and other Woodland Trust sites in Devon visit http://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk">www.woodlandtrust.org.uk

Please remember that dormice are protected by law and you should not even handle one without a licence.