Hazel Dormouse - Plants of Value To Dormice

Plants of Value To Dormice

  • Hazel is the principal food source, supports insects, forms an understory of poles, especially when coppiced, which makes it useful for its arboreal activity. The hazel dormouse's Latin name avellanarius means 'hazel'.
  • Oaks supply insect and flower food; the acorns are of little value.
  • Honeysuckle bark is their primary nesting material, and flowers and fruit are used for food.
  • Bramble flowers and fruits provide food over a long period. The thorns give protection for nests. Dormice thrive on blackberries.
  • Sycamore supplies insects and pollen, and a habitat. However, they cast a dense shade which decreases the understory.
  • Ash - seed keys whilst they are still on the tree
  • Viburnum lantana - fruits and flowers
  • Yew - fruits are a favoured food
  • Hornbeam - seeds
  • Broom - flowers (in early summer)
  • Sallow - unripe seeds, supports many insects
  • Birch - seeds
  • Sweet chestnut provides an excellent foodsource, and the flowers are eaten, as well.
  • Blackthorn - fruits
  • Hawthorn flowers are an important food in the spring. The fruit is eaten occasionally.

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