Changes in the status of dormice species in Latvia over the last three decades

The first assessment of the status dormice in Latvia, with emphasis on their distribution, was made 1993. In accordance methodology used within LIFE-IP LatViaNature project (2020–2028), to set favourable reference values (FRVs) for species range and population, early 1990s chosen as baseline evaluating population trends listed Habitats Directive, this a socio-economic turning point country. next milestones were 2004 (Latvia joined EU) present time. Knowledge about dormice, especially Forest Hazel Dormouse, has considerably improved. Since then, one four species, Garden vanished from Latvia. No records are known since mid-1990s, despite widespread use nest boxes monitoring dormice. limited ranges sizes Dormouse Edible country related occurrence here at northern limits distribution. Among other is most numerous widespread. Currently, it three disjunct populations, which probably vanished. Dormice part national biodiversity programme started only 2016. Therefore, long term unknown. Nest box occupation by been relatively stable, but decreased 2019–2021 compared 2017–2018, probably, due mild winters.