A small, enchanting rodent found throughout Europe and into parts of Asia and North Africa. It is particularly notable for its adaptable nature and distinctive physical features that set it apart from other dormouse species. Garden dormice are well-suited to a variety of habitats, including forests, gardens, and shrubby areas, making them a common yet delightful sight in their native regions.
One of the most striking characteristics of the Garden dormouse is its appearance. Their fur is soft and thick, predominantly grey or brown with a white underside, which helps them blend into their natural surroundings. What really catches the eye, however, is the distinct black mask around their large, expressive eyes, paired with big ears, giving them a perpetually alert and curious look. Their bushy tail, often with a black tuft at the end, is not only beautiful but also aids in balance and agility.
An interesting aspect of their behavior is their adaptability when it comes to nesting. Garden dormice can nest almost anywhere quiet and safe, from tree hollows and bird boxes to burrows abandoned by other animals beneath the ground. They are excellent climbers and often spend time in trees, which aids in both foraging and predator avoidance.
One of the most remarkable behaviors of the Garden dormouse is its ability to hibernate for long periods, typically from late autumn to spring. During hibernation, their body processes slow dramatically to conserve energy. This state allows them to survive periods of food scarcity and cold weather. The onset of hibernation is triggered by dropping temperatures and reduced food availability, and they might wake intermittently during warmer spells to feed if food is accessible.
Distribution
Andorra
Austria
Belarus
Belgium
Bosnia And Herz.
Croatia
Czechia
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Italy
Latvia
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Moldova
Netherlands
Poland
Portugal
Romania
Russia
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Switzerland
UkraineAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
