Italian cop raid nets dormice—mafia delicacy

Italian cops found a cache of 235 frozen dormice, which are a protected species in Italy. They also found more in cages being fattened up for slaughter. The creatures are a favorite of the ’Ndrangheta, whose members believe eating them during important meetings brings wisdom. They are also on the menu when warring clans make peace. Dormice were widely consumed in ancient Rome, often stuffed with ground pork and pine nuts.

The dormouse population is in rapid decline both in number and range. Many species are extinct. Their habitat tends to be old woodland, which is also in decline.