Common Name: Short-tailed Field Vole

Scientific Name: Microtus agrestis

Habitat:

The Short-tailed Field Vole is primarily found in a variety of habitats across Europe and parts of Asia. It thrives in grasslands, meadows, and arable lands, often favoring moist environments. This species is commonly located in regions with abundant vegetation, which provides cover from predators and resources for foraging. The presence of tall grasses and sedges is crucial for their survival, supporting both shelter and food availability.

Physical Characteristics:

The Short-tailed Field Vole typically measures about 9 to 11 cm in body length, with a short tail measuring approximately 1.5 to 3 cm. They possess a stout, rounded body covered in soft fur, which is usually brown or grayish in color, with a lighter underside. Their small, rounded ears and short limbs contribute to their characteristic appearance. Notably, their dense fur helps them maintain body heat in their cool, moist habitats.

Behavior:

Short-tailed Field Voles are primarily nocturnal, becoming active at night to forage for food while avoiding daytime predators. They are social animals, often forming large colonies in which they exhibit complex social interactions. Their burrowing behavior is a significant aspect of their life, as they create extensive tunnel systems for shelter and foraging. These voles are also known to engage in territorial disputes, particularly during mating season.

Diet:

The diet of the Short-tailed Field Vole consists mainly of grasses, roots, and tubers, making them herbivores specialized in consuming plant material. They are known to forage on a variety of green plant matter, and during the colder seasons, they may also eat seeds and dried grasses. Their feeding habits play a critical role in shaping their habitat, influencing plant community dynamics.

Reproduction:

The breeding season for the Short-tailed Field Vole typically occurs from early spring to late autumn, with peak activity during the early summer months. Females usually give birth to litters of 3 to 6 young after a gestation period of about 21 days. The offspring are born altricial, which means they are born undeveloped and rely heavily on their mother for care. Weaning occurs within a few weeks, after which the young voles start foraging for food independently.

Conservation Status:

As of now, the Short-tailed Field Vole is classified as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, habitat loss and changes in agricultural practices pose potential threats to their populations. Continuous monitoring is necessary to ensure that local populations remain stable.

Interesting Facts:

Short-tailed Field Voles are known for their rapid population growth, which can double within a few months under optimal conditions. They play a crucial role as a food source for various predators, including birds of prey, foxes, and snakes. Their active burrowing also aids in soil aeration, benefiting plant growth in their habitats.

Role in Ecosystem:

The Short-tailed Field Vole serves as an essential component of its ecosystem. As a herbivore, it influences plant communities through its feeding habits, while also providing a critical food source for a variety of predators. This species is integral to maintaining the balance of the grassland habitats in which they reside, illustrating the interconnectedness of wildlife populations.