Hazel Dormice (Muscardinus avellanarius) are known for their habits of dormancy, hibernating for much of the winter and sleeping for long periods during other times of cold, wet weather. They spend most of their waking, nocturnal lives in the treetops, only visiting the forest floor to sleep, nest in the spring and give birth in the summer. Dormice are becoming rare and in danger of extinction in all but the most southern counties of England and Wales, mainly due to the loss of their forested habitat. Visit portfolio page to learn more.