There are 28 species in this family. They are found in Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Most dormice look like small squirrels or mice. They are small to medium-sized rodents with soft, thick fur; rounded ears; big eyes; short legs; clawed feet; and most species have bushy tails.

Dormice usually have two litters a year, in the spring and in the summer. Litter size is between 2-10 young.

Most dormice species are arboreal (tree-dwelling) and spend most of their time in trees. Species found in colder climates may hibernate in the winter. Dormice eat fruit, nuts, seeds, invertebrates, birds, and eggs.

The dormouse is a famous character in Lewis Carrol’s book, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. In the famous tea party scene, the dormouse keeps falling asleep.