DISTRIBUTION AND HABITAT
Widely distributed throughout East and South Africa. This species is found in woodland, savanna, grassland and rocky areas.
BEHAVIOUR
Woodland darmouse is nocturnal and highly arboreal. They forage alone at night, mostly for insects and vegetation. During winter (May to August),
when temperatures drop considerably, woodland dormice hibernate.
DIET
Omnivorous. The diet changes in relation to season. They feed on buds and insects, fruits, seeds, nuts, occasionally on small rodents and the eggs and young
of small birds.
REPRODUCTION
Females have 1 to 2 litters per year. Gestation lasts for approximately 24 days, resulting in 3 to 4 pups per litter. Mothers provide protection, grooming,
and nourishment until pups reach independence. This species is reproductively mature the next summer after their first hibernation period.
GOOD TO KNOW
Woodland dormice are unique within their genus (Graphiurus), as they are the only African dormouse species to hibernate during the winter.
- Latin name: Graphiurus murinus
- IUCN –Red List – LC – least concern
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