Hazel dormouse

The hazel dormouse (Muscardinus avellanarius) is a small rodent belonging to the Gliridae family. Adapted for an arboreal lifestyle, this nocturnal creature uses its agile limbs and prehensile tail to navigate through branches and shrubs, where it sources most of its diet during the active season.

In agricultural settings, the hazel dormouse can be considered a pest, particularly for hazelnut orchards and fruit tree plantations. While its ecological role is important in woodland ecosystems, its feeding habits in cultivated areas can lead to significant economic losses for fruit and nut growers.

The biology of the species revolves around a strict seasonal cycle. Dormice spend the winter in deep hibernation, emerging in spring to feed on buds and flowers. Throughout the summer, they feed on berries, seeds, and nuts, accumulating fat reserves. With a high reproductive potential, the population can expand rapidly when food sources are abundant.

Damage caused by dormice is distinctive. They consume the contents of nuts by gnawing small, smooth holes in the shell. Beyond nut consumption, they can gnaw the bark of young shoots and feed on buds, which negatively impacts the tree's health, stunt growth, and creates entry points for pathogens and fungal infections.

Control and management strategies are primarily focused on exclusion and habitat modification to prevent crop destruction:

• Installing metal bands around tree trunks to prevent dormice from climbing into the canopy.
• Using protective netting or mesh to shield fruit crops and young trees from foraging.
• Pruning and maintaining clear spaces between trees to disrupt travel routes for climbing rodents.
• Encouraging natural predators by installing nest boxes for owls, which helps keep populations in check.