Somerset Wildlife Trust has launched a free cuddly dormouse e-Valentine's card to raise awareness of one of the county's most precious species.

The hazel dormouse, pictured, population has declined by 50 per cent in the past 100 years.

Somerset remains an important stronghold for these sleepy little creatures, with the trust's nature reserves providing vital woodland habitat.

Its corporate marketing officer Carol Ware said: "Valentine's Day is the perfect time to show you care, so we're asking people in Somerset to share their love of nature this Valentine's. Sending our e-card will help spread the love, and the conservation message, on this special day."

With the decline of dormice almost entirely due to the loss of woodland habitat the trust's management of its ancient woodland nature reserves is vital work.

On these reserves hazel coppicing ensures a good supply of nuts, leaves and berries; dormice tubes and boxes provide places for nesting and hibernation; and surveying and monitoring all helps to ensure the future survival of dormouse populations.

The trust runs an adoption scheme to help fund its conservation work. Dormice can be adopted this Valentine's for £20 which will help protect vulnerable wildlife and preserve wild places in Somerset. For more information visit www.somersetwildlife.org.