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Graphiurus murinus
Palm-sized tiny rodent with large eyes and a bushy tail. Nocturnal and quick, best enjoyed as an exotic pet to watch.
The African pygmy dormouse (Graphiurus murinus), also called the woodland dormouse, is a small rodent native to sub-Saharan Africa's forests and savannas. Their most recognizable features are a dark dorsal stripe, large dark eyes, and a bushy tail. Extremely quick and agile with a high jumping ability, African dormice require a very secure enclosure with no gaps; they are highly adept escape artists. They can be kept in small groups of the same sex. They are nocturnal omnivores whose diet should include insects (mealworms, crickets) as a protein source, supplemented by fruit, seeds, and vegetables. They may undergo partial torpor in cooler months, making temperature stability important. Common health concerns include obesity, fractures from falls, and parasites.
The African Dormouse lives 5-8 years.
Captive lifespan is 5–8 years.
The African Dormouse grows to 8-10cm / 20-35g.
Adults measure 8–10 cm in body length with a similarly sized tail, and weigh 20–35 g.
Optimal temperature is 22–28 °C.
Origin
sub-Saharan Africa
Lifespan
5-8 years
Size
Sources: Wikipedia (EN) African dormouse
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Primary sources
Accepted name: Graphiurus murinus (Desmarest, 1822)
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Find listings for this species
8-10cm / 20-35g
Temperature
18〜26℃
Humidity
40〜60%
Insects (mealworms etc.), fruit, seeds, specialized feed
Tall glass enclosure. Secure lid essential to prevent escape
Omnivorous. Balanced diet of insects, fruit, and seeds
25-28°C optimal. Cold-sensitive — heater needed in winter
Extremely fast escapers. Handle with great caution
Advanced. This is an advanced-level species. It requires specialized equipment and advanced husbandry skills with precise environmental control.
The average lifespan of African Dormouse is 5-8 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
African Dormouse typically reaches 8-10cm / 20-35g as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
African Dormouse feeds on: Insects (mealworms etc.), fruit, seeds, specialized feed. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of African Dormouse varies significantly depending on variety, age, sex, and the individual animal's condition. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 15, 2026