The field vole (Microtus agrestis), also known as the short-tailed vole, is one of the most common small mammals in the UK. Despite its small size, it plays a vital role in the ecosystem as both a prey species and a seed disperser in grasslands and woodlands.
The field vole is a small rodent native to Europe and commonly found throughout the UK. Though often mistaken for mice, voles have shorter tails and blunter faces.
Scientific Classification
Common Name: Field Vole
Scientific Name: Microtus agrestis
Family: Cricetidae
Order: Rodentia
Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN Red List)
What Do Field Voles Look Like
The field vole’s compact body and short tail distinguish it from mice. Its fur provides effective camouflage in grassy habitats. They also have blunter faces.
Physical Appearance
Size: 9-12 cm (3.5-4.7 inches) in body length
Tail Length: 3-5 cm (1.2-2 inches)
Weight: 20-50 grams
Fur Color: Brown or grey with a pale underside
Lifespan: 4-12 months
Where Do Field Voles Live
Where Do They Live
Where to find them
Field voles thrive in grassy environments where they can burrow and hide from predators while foraging for food.
Native To: Europe, including the UK
Habitats:
- Grasslands
- Meadows
- Woodland edges
- Hedgerows
Range: Widespread across the UK, particularly in areas with dense ground vegetation.
Behaviour & Lifestyle
How They Behave
Field voles create complex tunnel systems for shelter and food storage. Their populations can fluctuate significantly from year to year.
Activity: Primarily diurnal but also active at night
Diet: Herbivorous; feeds on grasses, seeds, roots, and mosses
Social Behavior: Solitary, with overlapping home ranges
Predators: Owls, foxes, stoats, and domestic cats
How Do They Breed
Field voles reproduce rapidly, making them a key prey species for many predators.
Breeding Season: March to October
Litter Size: 4-7 pups per litter
Gestation Period: Approximately 21 days
Independence: Pups become independent within 2-3 weeks
Reproduction & Lifespan
Ecological Importance
Why Are They Important
Field voles help maintain balanced ecosystems by providing a crucial link in the food chain.
Role in the Ecosystem:
Prey Species: Essential food source for birds of prey and mammals
Seed Disperser: Aids in plant regeneration through foraging
Conservation Status & Threats
The field vole is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN but still faces some localized threats.
Threats
Habitat loss due to urbanization and agricultural practices
Pesticide use affecting food availability
Conservation Efforts
Promoting wildlife-friendly farming practices
Maintaining hedgerows and grasslands
While currently widespread, continued conservation efforts ensure healthy populations of field voles across the UK.
LEAST CONCERN
Fun Facts
The field vole may be small, but it has a big impact on the ecosystem. Its fascinating behaviors and adaptations make it an essential species for maintaining biodiversity in the UK.
High Populations: Field voles are among the UK’s most abundant small mammals.
Vocal Creatures: They produce high-pitched squeaks during interactions.
Key Prey: Essential for sustaining barn owls and kestrel populations.
Mythology & Folklore
Field voles have rarely appeared in folklore but are often symbols of abundance and fertility due to their rapid breeding habits and presence in rural landscapes.
Cultural Significance
How to Spot Them
How to Spot a Field Vole in the Wild
Field voles can be challenging to spot due to their secretive nature. Here are some tips:
Where and When
Where to Look: Grassy meadows, woodland edges, and hedgerows
Best Time: Early morning or dusk when they are most active
Sighting Tips
Signs of Presence: Tunnels in dense grass, chewed vegetation, and small droppings
How You Can Help Protect Field Voles
Protecting the field vole is essential for maintaining a healthy ecosystem, as these small mammals play a vital role in supporting the food chain. By taking simple steps, you can contribute to safeguarding their habitats and promoting biodiversity.
Support Conservation Charities: Donate to wildlife protection organizations.
Encourage Wildlife-Friendly Gardens: Avoid pesticides and maintain wildflower areas.
Spread Awareness: Share the importance of small mammals in ecosystems.
Velvet the Field Vole!
Get Closer to Nature with Our Exclusive Woodland Wildlife Series!
Celebrate the beauty of Britain’s wildlife with our “Velvet the Field Vole” T-shirt, featuring a beautifully crafted linocut design. This T-shirt is perfect for wildlife lovers, conservationists, and anyone passionate about protecting native species.
“Velvet the Field Vole, with her small yet vital role in the ecosystem, reminds us that even the tiniest creatures make a big difference in the natural world.”
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