Gray Red-backed Vole

Common Name: Gray Red-backed Vole
Scientific Name: Myodes grisescens

Habitat

The Gray Red-backed Vole is primarily found in the northern regions of North America, including parts of Canada and the northern United States. They thrive in moist, forested areas, particularly in coniferous and mixed forests. These small mammals prefer habitats with dense underbrush and ample cover, such as leaf litter, where they can easily find shelter from predators.

Physical Characteristics

This species typically measures about 10 to 12 centimeters in length, with a weight range of 25 to 55 grams. The Gray Red-backed Vole is characterized by its distinctively soft, grayish-brown fur on the back, with a reddish-brown stripe running down the middle. They have small, rounded ears and relatively short tails, which are often less than half the length of their bodies. Their coloration and medium size provide effective camouflage within their forest habitats.

Behavior

Gray Red-backed Voles are primarily nocturnal and crepuscular, exhibiting peak activity during twilight and night hours. They are known for their burrowing behavior and create extensive tunnel systems underground, which they use for shelter and foraging. Socially, they tend to be solitary, although they can be found in loose associations during abundance of food. Their keen sense of smell aids in navigating through their habitats and locating food sources.

Diet

The diet of the Gray Red-backed Vole consists mainly of seeds, fruits, and green vegetation. They are particularly fond of roots, tubers, and berries, making them important seed dispersers in their ecosystem. Their feeding habits help maintain the health of their forest environment, as they contribute to plant growth and regeneration.

Reproduction

Gray Red-backed Voles typically breed from late spring to early autumn, with a gestation period of about three weeks. Females can produce two to three litters per season, each containing between four to six offspring. The young voles are weaned after three weeks and reach sexual maturity within a few months, enabling rapid population growth in suitable habitats.

Conservation Status

Currently, the Gray Red-backed Vole is classified as a species of ‘Least Concern’ on the IUCN Red List; however, they face threats from habitat loss and fragmentation due to logging and land development. Continued monitoring is essential to maintain their populations in changing environments.

Interesting Facts

One fascinating fact about the Gray Red-backed Vole is their ability to store food for winter months. They create small caches of seeds and vegetation, which they can easily locate later through their excellent memory. Additionally, they play a crucial role in the ecosystem as prey for various predators, including owls and small mammals.

Role in Ecosystem

The Gray Red-backed Vole serves as an essential component of its ecosystem by participating in seed dispersal, contributing to plant diversity and forest regeneration. As prey, they support a variety of predators, thus maintaining the balance in their food chain. Their burrowing activities also help aerate the soil, enhancing nutrient cycling within their forest habitats.