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edible doormouse

edible doormouse

Belgium, France, Greece, Italy, Netherlands, Sweden, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Status
Least Concern

IUCN conservation assessment category

Habitat
Forest, Grassland, Freshwater, Mountain

Primary ecological niche & biome

Diet
roots, leaves, forest seeds, and occasional insects

Dietary type and primary food source

Activity
nocturnal and crepuscular

Diurnal, nocturnal, or active patterns

Scientific Summary

GBIF Taxonomic Backbone & Wikipedia Registry Profile

Habitat. Deciduous and mixed woodlands with high proportions of mast-producing beech (Fagus) or oak (Quercus) trees, both Fagaceae, from sea level to elevations of c. 2000 m. Presence of other fruiting trees, such as hazel (Corylus, Betulaceae) and walnut (Juglans, Juglandaceae), improves habitat quality for Fat Dormice. They prefer mature forests stands with old hollow trees; hollows are used as nesting and breeding sites. Well-connected tree canopies are important for arboreal movements and protection from predators. Fat Dormice also occur in maquis (Mediterranean shrubland) on rocky areas along the Mediterranean coast. They often enter buildings and inhabit caves wherever present.
Biology & Conservation

Ecologically, the conservation status of edible doormouse is officially designated as Least Concern. Current field registries estimate a global population composed of an unquantified number of individuals, making habitat preservation critical to maintaining their wild populations.

It is typically endemic to forest, grassland, freshwater, mountain, showing great physiological synergy with its surroundings. In terms of dietary preferences, it relies primarily on a diet of roots, leaves, forest seeds, and occasional insects. It exhibits specialized adaptations centered around a nocturnal and crepuscular activity pattern, optimizing its energy conservation and interactions within its native ecosystem. The species has a typical natural lifespan of approximately 3 years, allowing it to adapt and mature through structured generational cycles.

Ongoing biological monitoring and ecological advocacy emphasize the importance of protecting this species. The stability of its food chain and the prevention of fragmentation in its primary range are vital for the continued survival of edible doormouse.

Energy & Activity Profile
Habitat & Adaptation Index
Quick Facts
Native RangeBelgium, France, Greece, Italy, Netherlands, Sweden, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Habitat RangeForest, Grassland, Freshwater, Mountain
Lifespan3 Yrs
StatusLeast Concern
ScientificGlis glis
Registry Info
Lifespan3 years
KingdomAnimalia
FamilyGliridae