Farmers in the Yorkshire Dales are being hailed as conservationists, after helping to plant a six-mile continuous stretch of woodland and hedgerows to provide a habitat bridge or highway for native dormice.

The project is taking place in Wensleydale, a town famous for its cheese, and although farmers usually try to control rodent populations, the demise of the native dormouse saw many get involved in a three-year project to help reverse their decline.

With its soft red coat, long furry tail and small features, the dormouse was once a common sight across the English countryside but the People’s Trust for Endangered Species estimated the population has seen a 51% decline since 2000.

Although not native to Ireland, the dormouse has been spotted in the east of the country and NUI Galway is undertaking a survey of the species.

If you see a dormouse in Ireland, you can contact NUI Galway at dormousireland@gmail.com or 086-066 0208.