Extending Dormouse Territory in Somerset
During National Tree Week, 22-30 Nov 2025, 3000 CAP trees were planted at Ham Hill Country Park, Somerset.
November, 2025
With the help of planting teams from the Somerset Council, local volunteer groups & families, a team from Scout Productions and MP Sarah Dyke, an incredible 3,000 native trees were planted over six action-packed, apple-cake-fuelled days in Witcombe Valley at Ham Hill Country Park. Led by the brilliant Paul McNeill, he & ecologist James Chapman selected 15 native tree species including oak, hazel, field maple, goat willow & crab apple - all chosen for their resilience to drought tolerance and value to local wildlife. Despite myriad weather conditions the teams plugged away and we are delighted that the woodland is now in!
PLANTING AT HAM HILL
The ancient Iron Age fort of Ham Hill in Somerset has five woodlands which are home to the rare hazel dormouse. In November 2025, volunteers led by the Somerset Council planted 3,000 trees to bridge four existing pockets of the woodland - including Pit & Horse - in order to extend their range. Principle funders for the project include Stink Films, ProdCo, BBH, Academy Films & Biscuit Filmworks.
ON THE TRAIL OF DORMICE
In September 2025, before the trees went in, CAP joined Somerset Council’s Paul McNeill to carry out a dormouse survey in woodlands surrounding the planting site. More than 50 nest boxes were checked, but no dormice were found. The absence is likely linked to the hot, dry summer of 2025 which will have placed significant stress on these shy, sleepy creatures. No sightings doesn’t mean no dormice, but it does mean their numbers at the time were low.
BOUNCE BACK
2025's hot summer sparked a mast year, with trees producing bumper crops of fruits and nuts. Such years occur every few seasons & bring a welcome boost to wildlife by providing plentiful food. For dormice, the abundance will have offered the energy needed to fatten up for winter and recover after a tough year. Our tree planting will extend range & increase forage for these elusive little mice, with the hope of building their numbers again...