Wildlifeof China
Desert Dormouse
Rats, Mice, Voles & Porcupines
Photo: Post of Soviet Union · Public domain
Selevinia betpakdalaensis
Basic stats
Diet
Primarily insects and other arthropods
Habitat
Sandy or clay desert with shrubs
Range
Kazakhstan and adjoining parts of Central Asia
Size
Approximately 7.5–9.5cm head-and-body length
The desert dormouse is a small, unusual Central Asian rodent with dense grey fur, large ears and a tail that can accumulate fat. It is the sole living species of Selevinia and differs markedly in skull and dental structure from more familiar dormice. Its known range centres on arid Kazakhstan and adjoining country. (Wikipedia, general species account)
It occupies sandy or clay desert with sparse shrub cover and is active mainly at night. Unlike most dormice, its diet is dominated by insects and other arthropods. Seasonal fat storage and prolonged inactivity help it endure cold winters and periods when prey is scarce. (Wikipedia, general species account)
Quick answers
- What does the Desert Dormouse eat?
- Primarily insects and other arthropods
- What habitat does the Desert Dormouse live in?
- Sandy or clay desert with shrubs
- Where is the Desert Dormouse found?
- Kazakhstan and adjoining parts of Central Asia
- How big is the Desert Dormouse?
- Approximately 7.5–9.5cm head-and-body length