Hokkaido Red-backed Vole Overview

Common Name: Hokkaido Red-backed Vole
Scientific Name: Myodes rutilus

Habitat

The Hokkaido Red-backed Vole is primarily found in the northern regions of Japan, particularly on Hokkaido Island. This species prefers forested areas, including coniferous and mixed forests, as well as grasslands and shrubby landscapes. They thrive in environments that provide ample ground cover, which is essential for their shelter and foraging activities.

Physical Characteristics

The Hokkaido Red-backed Vole is a small rodent, typically measuring around 10 to 12 cm in body length. It features a characteristic reddish-brown fur on its back, which contrasts with its lighter gray underbelly. Their small, rounded ears and short tails, measuring about 3 to 5 cm, are distinctive traits. This species has sharp incisor teeth, which are crucial for gnawing on various food sources.

Behavior

Hokkaido Red-backed Voles exhibit predominantly nocturnal behavior, emerging at dusk to forage and explore their territory. They are known to be social animals, often living in small groups. Their agility and adept climbing abilities help them escape predators and find food in diverse habitats. During winter, they may enter a state of torpor to conserve energy when food resources are scarce.

Diet

The diet of the Hokkaido Red-backed Vole mainly consists of seeds, berries, roots, and various plant materials. They are herbivorous and exhibit foraging behavior that includes burying food items for later consumption. This caching behavior helps ensure their survival during colder months when food scarcity may occur.

Reproduction

Hokkaido Red-backed Voles breed from late spring to early autumn, with females capable of producing multiple litters each year. A typical litter may consist of 3 to 7 offspring, which are born hairless and blind. The young reach maturity in about 4 to 6 weeks and begin to venture out on their own shortly thereafter. Maternal care is crucial during the early stages of development.

Conservation Status

As of now, the Hokkaido Red-backed Vole is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List, indicating that this species is not currently facing immediate threats to its population. However, habitat loss due to urban development and agricultural expansion poses potential risks in the future.

Interesting Facts

The Hokkaido Red-backed Vole is often mistaken for other vole species due to its size and coloring. Interestingly, this species has adapted well to snowy environments, utilizing its fur pelt for insulation and exploiting its agility to navigate through the underbrush.

Role in Ecosystem

In the ecosystem, the Hokkaido Red-backed Vole plays a vital role as a prey species for various predators, including birds of prey and small mammals. Additionally, their foraging activities contribute to seed dispersal, promoting plant diversity within their habitat. By serving as both prey and seed dispersers, they maintain ecological balance in their natural environment.