he levels of Pb and Cd in the liver and muscle samples of fat dormouse (Glis glis) were measured and com- pared in various localities in Hyrcanian forests of Northern Iran. We detected the highest Pb and Cd residues in sampled animals inhabiting forest patches closer to high-traffic roads and a decreasing trend was recorded ranging from polluted areas to far remote and high altitude areas. The results showed no significant differ- ences between the sexes. We found positive correlation between lead concentration and age of the sampled animals as identified on the basis of their morphometric characteristics. The results of the present study as well as the relatively unique ecological and biological peculiarities of fat dormouse indicate this species as a potential bioindicator of the heavy metal contamination and forest ecosystems health.
