Dormouse - Introduction

The word dormouse comes from the French word 'dormir' - to sleep. The dormouse is one of the most attractive of Britain's small mammals. It is a member of the rodent family which means it has prominent, strong and sharp front teeth (the incisors) for gnawing food.

Around 100 years ago, dormice were more widespread and often kept as pets in the countryside. They were made famous through the Mad Hatter's tea-party from Alice in Wonderland. Unfortunately, today they are a rare and endangered species and few people are lucky enough to see one in the wild.