Species Description: Thomas’s Pine Vole

Common Name: Thomas’s Pine Vole
Scientific Name: Microtus pinetorum

Habitat

Thomas’s Pine Vole is primarily found in the eastern United States, particularly in pine forests and mixed woodlands. Their preferred habitat includes areas with dense ground cover, such as leaf litter and grass. Often located in regions ranging from New Jersey to Florida, these voles thrive in environments that provide ample shelter and access to their food sources.

Physical Characteristics

This small rodent typically measures around 7 to 10 inches in length and weighs between 2 to 4 ounces. The fur is soft and typically a rich brown or grayish color that blends well with its forest environment. Thomas’s Pine Vole has a cylindrical body shape with a short tail, small rounded ears, and relatively large eyes, making it well-adapted for its subterranean lifestyle.

Behavior

Thomas’s Pine Vole exhibits a largely subterranean lifestyle, spending much of its time burrowing through the soil in search of food. They are known for their solitary behavior, although they may share burrows during mating seasons. These voles are primarily active at twilight and throughout the night, which allows them to avoid predators. Their burrowing habits also contribute to soil aeration, improving the overall health of forest ecosystems.

Diet

The diet of Thomas’s Pine Vole consists mainly of roots, tubers, and other plant materials. They are herbivorous and have a particular preference for grasses and the roots of various herbaceous plants. This rodent’s feeding habits not only influence the growth of vegetation but also play a significant role in nutrient cycling within their habitat.

Reproduction

Thomas’s Pine Voles breed year-round, with peak activity during spring and early summer. The females usually give birth to 3 to 6 young after a gestation period of about 21 days. The young voles are born blind and hairless, relying on their mother’s protection. Notably, the mother will often move them to different burrow systems to prevent predation.

Conservation Status

Currently, Thomas’s Pine Vole is classified as of “Least Concern” according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), indicating a stable population. However, habitat destruction and fragmentation pose potential risks to their natural habitats, making continuous monitoring necessary.

Interesting Facts

One fascinating aspect of Thomas’s Pine Vole is its ability to create complex burrow systems that can extend several meters underground. These tunnels serve multiple functions, such as foraging, nesting, and protection from predators. Additionally, they are often preyed upon by various mammals, birds of prey, and snakes, highlighting their role in the food chain.

Role in Ecosystem

Thomas’s Pine Vole plays a crucial role in its ecosystem as both a herbivore and prey species. By aiding in the decomposition of plant materials and promoting soil health, these voles contribute to the overall biodiversity of pine and mixed woodlands. Their presence supports a variety of predators, including owls and foxes, forming a vital link within the food web.

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