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African Dormouse
AdvancedPalm-sized tiny rodent with large eyes and a bushy tail. Nocturnal and quick, best enjoyed as an exotic pet to watch.
Difficulty
Advanced
Temperature
18〜26℃
Lifespan
5-8 years
Size
8-10cm / 20-35g
Humidity
40〜60%
Diet
Insects (mealworms etc.), fruit, seeds, specialized feed
About
The African pygmy dormouse (Graphiurus murinus), also called the woodland dormouse, is a small rodent native to sub-Saharan Africa's forests and savannas. Adults measure 8–10 cm in body length with a similarly sized tail, and weigh 20–35 g. 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. Optimal temperature is 22–28 °C. They may undergo partial torpor in cooler months, making temperature stability important. Common health concerns include obesity, fractures from falls, and parasites. Captive lifespan is 4–6 years.
Basic Info
Origin
sub-Saharan Africa
Lifespan
5-8 years
Size
8-10cm / 20-35g
Temperature
18〜26℃
Humidity
40〜60%
Diet
Insects (mealworms etc.), fruit, seeds, specialized feed
Care Guide
Cage
Tall glass enclosure. Secure lid essential to prevent escape
Care Specifications
PeacefulGroupBreeding: Moderate
Sources: Wikipedia (EN) African dormouse
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Primary sources
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: (Desmarest, 1822)
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
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