Monitoring of the forest dormouse and common dormouse (special monitoring) 2025–2027

Study supported by the Nature Conservation Agency

 Main tasks of study:

1. Monitoring of the forest dormouse Dryomys nitedula and the common dormouse Muscardinus avellanarius, carried out in accordance with the Special Monitoring Methodologies approved by the Nature Conservation Agency in 2016.

2. As part of the monitoring, DNA-containing samples of the forest dormouse are collected and analyzed using molecular genetic methods every year to assess genetic diversity in the context of population viability. The analysis is carried out in accordance with the methodology described in the publication: Ruņģis D. et al. 2024. Genetic Diversity and Differentiation in the Forest Dormouse Dryomys nitedula (Pallas, 1778) (Rodentia: Gliridae) Population in Latvia. Acta Zool. Bulg., Suppl. 19, 71-77.

3. Within the framework of the monitoring of the common dormouse, the distribution and occurrence of the species shall be clarified by checking its presence in 10 × 10 km squares in which the common dormouse has not been detected so far or the findings are older than 2000, provided that these squares contain suitable habitats for the species.

4. Within the framework of the monitoring of the forest dormouse, the distribution and occurrence of the species shall be clarified by checking its presence within and in the immediate vicinity of the previously determined distribution area, mapping the habitats suitable for the species and checking the presence of forest dormouse in them.

5. Monitoring should be carried out as a priority in large sample plots with 50 cages each to assess population dynamics. As part of the monitoring, the annual population of the placed cages should be determined in standardized monitoring plots (4 plots for the common dormouse and 3 plots for the forest dormouse). The cage content should be checked at least twice a season. After the dormouse activity season or before the next one, the cages should be cleaned, and if necessary, replaced or repaired.

6. By 2025, cages should be removed and moved to other locations (10 × 10 km squares) in the sample plots of groups of cages installed if the presence of dormouse is detected or if it has not been detected within 3–5 years.

7. To the extent possible, separate cage plots should be installed in forest lands where wind turbine parks are planned to be developed.