Western Heather Vole (Phenacomys intermedius)

Common Name: Western Heather Vole
Scientific Name: Phenacomys intermedius

Habitat

The Western Heather Vole is primarily found in the mountainous regions of North America, particularly in the western United States and Canada. Its preferred habitats include alpine meadows, grassy slopes, and dense shrublands, where it thrives in areas rich in heather and other low-lying vegetation. The vole typically inhabits moist, loamy soils that provide shelter and abundant food sources.

Physical Characteristics

Western Heather Voles are medium-sized rodents, measuring approximately 8 to 10 inches in length. They exhibit a robust, stocky body structure with a short tail. Their fur is generally brownish-grey, providing excellent camouflage against the forest floor. Notable features include small, rounded ears and a somewhat flattened skull, which are key identifiers of the species.

Behavior

These voles are known for their nocturnal and crepuscular behavior, actively foraging during dusk and dawn. They are social animals, often seen in small family groups that communicate through vocalizations and scent marking. The Western Heather Vole is also a proficient burrower, creating extensive tunnel systems that serve as protection from predators.

Diet

Western Heather Voles have a herbivorous diet that primarily consists of grasses, sedges, herbs, and the tender shoots of shrubs. They have adapted to feed on a variety of plant materials, often selecting those abundant in their alpine and subalpine habitats. Their foraging habits contribute to seed dispersal and the maintenance of plant communities in their ecosystem.

Reproduction

The breeding season for Western Heather Voles typically occurs in the late spring to early summer. Females can produce multiple litters each year, with an average of 4 to 6 young per litter. Offspring are born blind and hairless, relying heavily on their mothers for nourishment. The young begin to explore and forage independently after about three weeks, contributing to the population’s growth.

Conservation Status

Currently, the Western Heather Vole is listed as ‘Vulnerable’ due to habitat loss and environmental changes that threaten its populations. Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation and restoration to ensure the survival of this unique rodent.

Interesting Facts

The Western Heather Vole is known for its distinctive “circular feeding areas,” where they selectively graze on plants, creating noticeable spots in vegetation. This behavior not only aids in their feeding but also highlights their significant role in shaping the ecology of their habitat.

Role in Ecosystem

As a herbivore, the Western Heather Vole plays a crucial role in its ecosystem by helping to control plant growth and contributing to the soil’s health through their burrowing activities. They serve as prey for various predators, including birds of prey and mammals, thereby forming a vital part of the food web within their habitat.