HAZEL DORMOUSE
Muscardinus avellanarius
DESCRIPTION
The Hazel Dormouse is a small, nocturnal rodent with a round body, large eyes, and a bushy tail. Its fur is typically a golden-brown color, which helps it blend into its woodland habitat. This species is known for its hibernation behavior, where it can sleep for up to six months during the winter months, curling up in nests made of leaves and moss.
FUN FACTS
- The Hazel Dormouse is an excellent climber, using its sharp claws to navigate through trees and shrubs in search of food
- They are also known for their unique hibernation habits, which can last from October to April, allowing them to survive in colder climates by significantly reducing their metabolic rate.| Hazel Dormice have a special adaptation that allows them to store fat in their bodies before hibernation, which is crucial for their survival during the long winter months when food is scarce
- Their nests are often built in tree hollows or dense vegetation, providing them with safety and warmth
QUICK INFO
Lifespan3-5 years in the wild, up to 10 years in captivity
Average Weight15-30 g
Average Length7.5-9.5 cm
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social StructureSolitary, with individuals typically living alone except during mating.
Activity PatternNocturnal
Breeding SeasonLate spring to early summer (May-July)
- Habitat
- Hazel Dormice are typically found in deciduous woodlands, particularly those with a dense understorey of shrubs and a rich supply of food. They prefer areas with plenty of cover for nesting and foraging.
- Biomes
- Temperate Forest
- Native Range
- The Hazel Dormouse is native to parts of Europe, particularly in the UK, France, and Germany.
- Continent
- Europe
- Countries
- United Kingdom, France, Germany, Switzerland, Italy
- Diet
- The Hazel Dormouse primarily feeds on a variety of plant materials, including nuts, fruits, and flowers. It has a particular fondness for hazelnuts, which are a significant part of its diet.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- Hazelnuts, fruits, flowers
- Social Structure
- Solitary, with individuals typically living alone except during mating.
- Activity Pattern
- Nocturnal
- Group Size
- 1
- Territorial
- 0
VU
15-30 g
Weight
7.5-9.5 cm
Length
- Coloration
- Golden-brown fur with a lighter underbelly.
- Lifespan
- 3-5 years in the wild, up to 10 years in captivity
- Gestation Period
- 24-28 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 2-6
- Sexual Maturity
- 1 year
- Breeding Season
- Late spring to early summer (May-July)
VU
Vulnerable
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Hazel Dormice is declining due to habitat loss and fragmentation.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Unknown, but considered to be decreasing
- Population Trend
- Decreasing
- Endangered
- 1
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to agricultural expansion and urban development. Climate change also poses a risk to their food sources and hibernation patterns.
- Conservation Program
- Conservation efforts include habitat restoration and protection initiatives.
- Predators
- Birds of prey, such as owls and hawks; snakes; and small mammals like weasels.
- Defense Mechanisms
- Hazel Dormice rely on their ability to hide and blend into their surroundings to avoid predators.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon