Dormouse Box - Muscardinus avellanarius
This unique dormouse house provides an ideal nesting habitat and is designed to accommodate their natural ball-shaped nests.
Measurements: 20 x 17.5 x 19cm approx
Weight: 1.05 kg
Siting - Locate the box in a quiet area on mature trees or in thick hedgerows. Position the box about 1 – 1.5m high with the hole facing the tree trunk.
Handmade: from FSC local wood. Each box is a little different
Features:
However, please note that as the dormouse is a ‘Protected Species’ in the United Kingdom, it is against the law to disturb the mice, and when occupied inspection should only be carried out by a licensed inspector.
Dormice are arboreal and nocturnal. Their primary habitat is within the vegetation layer of mature trees/woodland, strong thicket and thick hedgerow type vegetation. They eat mainly insects, seeds, nuts and pollen, but are particularly fond of hazelnuts (Corylus avellana), In the appropriate environment, if you find hazelnuts with a smooth round hole in their side or the bark of the hazel stripped it may be an indicator of dormice in the vicinity. Dormice can have up to 2 litters per year. With their lovely ginger-brown fur, long fur covered tails and deep black eyes, the dormouse is one of our most beautiful and intriguing small mammals. Sadly however, dormouse numbers are in steep decline.
Important Information: These products are for wild creatures and as such, you should not expect immediate habitation. We suggest you carefully read the supplied instructions for siting and provide this product in a suitable habitat for the target species. The product can then be re-visited 6 - 12 months later, or in the appropriate season, to see if it is being used. If after 24 months the product has not been used, it may be worth choosing an alternative location to site it and/or look to see what improvements you can make to provide a suitable environment for your target species (flowers, woodpiles, rough areas of garden etc) Because many species of creature are constantly seeking refuge and safe nesting sites, you may find that an unexpected species is using your product - this is part of nature and all species should be welcomed as part of your wildlife garden.