Last dormouse in Sussex?

Sussex Wildlife Trust supporter, Don Filliston from Storrington was so inspired by our recent Dormouse Appeal that he penned a poem about the threats faced by this adorable creature.

Numbers in Britain have crashed down the years,
Through habitat loss, with extinction fears.
Woodlands must be improved, for them to thrive;
Then, in safety, to breed and stay alive.

Coppicing decline and farming changes,
With encroachment, has lost habitat ranges.
Moving freely to source nesting and food,
Will give cover from predators to intrude.

They will need a good mix of tree species;
Hazel coppice, with green corridor pieces.
Undergrowth of honeysuckle and bramble,
For food, their nests and safety to ramble.

Open country, they’re reluctant to cross,
So in isolation, they’re at a loss.
There’s a danger of becoming extinct
Because habitats should be interlinked.

Dormice are nocturnal and very shy
And none of us want them all to die,
So please support Sussex Wildlife’s appeal,
To secure their future and well being seal.

If you would like to support of Dormouse Appeal please donate online here or text MICE00 £3 to 70070 to donate £3.