* Nocturnal: They are primarily active at night.
* Hibernation: Dormice hibernate during the winter months, becoming dormant and inactive.
* Arboreal: Most species live in trees and bushes, though some are terrestrial.
* Diet: They primarily eat seeds, nuts, fruits, and insects.
* Distinctive Features: They have large, black eyes, short, rounded ears, and a thick, fluffy tail.
* Distribution: Dormice are found in Europe, Asia, and Africa.
There are several species of dormice, including:
* Hazel dormouse: The most common species in Europe, known for its hazel-brown fur.
* Garden dormouse: Found in gardens and woodlands, often near human settlements.
* Edible dormouse: A larger species, historically used as a food source.
Dormice are often confused with mice, but they are distinct animals. Dormice are larger and have a more rounded body shape. They also have a fluffy tail, unlike the hairless tail of a mouse.