About Dormouse The Edible Dormouse The Edible Dormouse, or Glis glis, to give it its commonly used scientific name. It is much bigger than native Common Dormouse, more closely resembling a small squirrel. In common with these two animals it is a very good climber and spends most of its night time wanderings in the tree tops although it is not averse to entering the lofts of houses. Its climbing ability is aided by the ability to secrete a sticky secretion to improve its grip - it has even been observed climbing up glass! During the day the dormouse sleeps in tree holes or specially built nests close to the trunk.
Its alternative name of Fat Dormouse stems from its autumnal activity of fattening itself up prior to hibernating which lasts from October to April. This behaviour was noticed by the Romans who would keep them in special pots known as 'Gliraria' and feed them until they were ready for eating.