DORMICE
The dormouse is a small rodent that nests in trees, and is found throughout Europe, Asia and northern Africa.
It is thought that the name 'dormouse' comes from the fact that they were eaten when fat, just before their winter dormancy.
In ancient Rome, dormice were a delicacy. They were raised in cages and fattened on a diet of chestnuts and acorns. In Petronius’ ‘Satyricon’ they are served with honey and poppies.
Edible wild dormice are still consumed in Slovenia, where they are considered a rare delicacy. In southern Italy they are becoming an endangered species due to illegal hunting.
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