Stone dormouse facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Stone Dormouse |
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G. rupicola
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Graphiurus rupicola (Thomas & Hinton, 1925)
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The stone dormouse (Graphiurus rupicola) is a small, furry rodent that belongs to the Gliridae family. These cute creatures are known for living in rocky places. They are mostly found in parts of Southern Africa.
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Where Do Stone Dormice Live?
Stone dormice make their homes in specific areas of Southern Africa. You can find them mainly in Namibia and South Africa. Sometimes, they are also seen in Angola. They love rocky areas, which provide them with shelter and places to hide from predators.
What is a Dormouse?
Dormice are a group of small rodents. They are often compared to squirrels or mice, but they have their own unique features. Many dormouse species are known for being very sleepy, especially during colder months. They can go into a deep sleep called hibernation to save energy when food is scarce.
What Do Stone Dormice Look Like?
Like other dormice, the stone dormouse is a small mammal. They typically have soft fur, large eyes, and long tails. Their bodies are well-suited for climbing and moving around in rocky environments.
Why Are They Called "Stone" Dormice?
The "stone" in their name comes from their preferred habitat. They live among rocks, boulders, and rocky outcrops. These rocky areas offer them protection and many crevices to build their nests.