Dormice
The Gliridae family, commonly known as dormice, belongs to the order Rodentia. These small mammals are characterized by their nocturnal behavior and bushy tails. While often protected by conservation laws in various regions, their presence in orchards can sometimes lead to significant agricultural damage, requiring targeted management strategies.
What the section contains
Edible dormouse
Glis glis
Edible dormouse
Glis
Forest dormouse
Dryomys
Forest dormouse
Dryomys nitedula
Garden dormouse
Eliomys
Garden dormouse
Eliomys quercinus
Hazel dormouse
Muscardinus
Hazel dormouse
Muscardinus avellanarius
Mouse-tailed dormouse
Myomimus
Roach's mouse-tailed dormouse
Myomimus roachi
Dormice
Dormice typically target a variety of fruit-bearing crops. They are known to feed on apples, pears, plums, peaches, and hazelnuts. Additionally, they are frequently encountered in vineyards, where they consume ripening grapes, often causing direct financial losses to fruit growers.
The biology of dormice is defined by their seasonal cycle and nocturnal activity. They are famous for their long winter hibernation, which dictates their activity patterns in the orchard. Once they emerge in the spring, their feeding behavior aligns with the development stages of various fruits, making them a recurring presence during the growing season.
The primary damage caused by dormice involves consuming fruit and gnawing on young branches. By feeding on the fruit, they reduce marketable yield and create entry points for pathogens and fungal infections. In some instances, gnawing on bark can girdle young trees, resulting in stunted growth or even plant mortality.
Effective protection strategies should be non-lethal and preventative. Recommended measures include installing smooth protective guards or baffles around tree trunks to prevent climbing. Additionally, maintaining orchard hygiene by clearing debris and utilizing acoustic deterrents can help discourage dormice from nesting or foraging in your trees during the critical harvest period.