I raked up a dormouse with the leaves!

[Dorts]

I'm an optimist when it comes to Dormice numbers. Apart from the many known areas where good populations are sustained, I have frequently found them in the most unlikely of places. Usually if there is a good mixture of Hawthorn, Bramble, Honeysuckle and Wild Rose in a relatively undisturbed habitat, they will do well.
One thing I have found surprising over the years, is the number of dead Dormice I have found on woodland paths, which to me is an indication of good numbers, if found in the same woodland over many years. These dead Dormice have always appeared to be in perfect condition, presumably dying of natural causes; I believe they only live for 12 months or so.
Dorts.

[fairplay]

Originally Posted by Dorts

I'm an optimist when it comes to Dormice numbers. Apart from the many known areas where good populations are sustained, I have frequently found them in the most unlikely of places. Usually if there is a good mixture of Hawthorn, Bramble, Honeysuckle and Wild Rose in a relatively undisturbed habitat, they will do well.
One thing I have found surprising over the years, is the number of dead Dormice I have found on woodland paths, which to me is an indication of good numbers, if found in the same woodland over many years. These dead Dormice have always appeared to be in perfect condition, presumably dying of natural causes; I believe they only live for 12 months or so.
Dorts.

This is very interesting in itself as one would expect the battle for survival and the need to consume food would mean normally something would eat a dead dormouse straight away.

Neil.

[Dorts]

Originally Posted by fairplay

This is very interesting in itself as one would expect the battle for survival and the need to consume food would mean normally something would eat a dead dormouse straight away.
Neil.

Exactly my thoughts Neil. Perhaps they are a bit like Shrews, not so desirable to be eaten.
Dorts.

[Sawsicksteve]

Originally Posted by Dorts

Exactly my thoughts Neil. Perhaps they are a bit like Shrews, not so desirable to be eaten.
Dorts.

Dormice are quite palatable enough for a good number of predators. Fox, Badger, Weasel, Stoat and I suspect Wild boar will all take the opportunity to take a Dormouse or two. Even Wood mice are capable of killing them when they're in a torpid state.
Regarding lifespan, they are more akin to larger mammals, being far less numerous than, say, a Wood mouse or Vole, but living far longer, up to 5 years or sometimes longer.
I think they're definitely overlooked in many habitats, people assume that Hazel is an essential for them but I've found them in coastal scrub (Blackthorn) and gardens (including mine, which supports a good population). I've also found the occasional dead one on a woodland path and have twice been fortunate enough to experience Dormice awaking from their winter slumbers. The 'snoring' noise emitted is surprisingly audible and you would think would prove a draw for predators, but only lasts a few minutes.
Both these hibernaculums consisted of little more than moss lined rudimentary 'nests' sited in slight depressions on a recently coppiced woodland floor, yet were remarkably dry given the dampness of the surrounding area.

[fairplay]

I hope somebody is taking note - there's some interesting snippets of information emerging here.

Neil.

[Billabong Karen]

I agree - great thread, really interesting.