Who is waiting at the main entrance? Species composition and temporal dynamics of the use of underground cavern exits of Edible Dormice (Glis glis) by their potential predators

A diverse assemblage of reptiles, birds and mammals, ranging from the smallest to size Brown bear, prey on Edible Dormouse. Dormice are particularly exposed predation while actively searching for food in tree canopy. much narrower spectrum species can access dormice during their periods inactivity, typically spent underground burrows, caves shafts. Entrances caverns frequently so narrow that they prevent passing larger predatory species. concentrate at such entrances/exits as many individuals use same cavern. Their emergence is predictable less agile ground than The exits therefore may act efficient hunting spots predators. However, we not aware any research addressing this. goal our study was document composition predators used by dormice. entrances 10 these Dinaric Mountains Slovenia were continuously monitored infra-red camera traps whole 2021 season, set maximum sensitivity 1.5 m entrances. We recorded 250 arrivals/departures 480 recordings 7 waiting entrances: Stone/Pine Marten (266), Wild Cat (68), Fox (67), Domestic (45), Badger (19), Bear (17) Boar (4). Recorded often alert apparently controlled exit which (in addition time recordings) indicates, have been there did record predation.