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| Field Vole - Microtus agrestis | |
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| Tweet Topic Started: Dec 15 2012, 05:27 AM (1,623 Views) | |
| Elephantus | Dec 15 2012, 05:27 AM Post #1 |
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Tusker
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Field Vole - Microtus agrestis![]() Scientific classification Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Mammalia Order: Rodentia Family: Cricetidae Subfamily: Arvicolinae Genus: Microtus Subgenus: Microtus Species: Microtus agrestis The field vole is a species of short-tailed vole, and one of the most common mammals in Europe. Habitat ![]() This species is believed to be the most numerous of the European mammals. It is found throughout Europe, including Britain, as well as throughout northern Asia. They favor moist and grassy habitats, such as meadows, woodland, marsh, or river banks. Description Like all voles, the field vole has a small, stocky body and a blunt, rounded muzzle. The fur is greyish-brown on the upperparts, and creamy-grey below. The rounded ears are covered with fur, and the eyes are less obvious than in mice. Head and body length is typically between 90-112 mm (3.5-4.5 in), with a very short tail. Weight is 20-40 g. ![]() Ecology Although active throughout the day and night, this vole is most active at dusk. It feeds primarily on the stems and leaves of grasses. Males defend territories, whereas females do not. When it occurs in high densities, the field vole can be a pest in grasslands, young plantations and crops. Most predatory birds and mammals take field voles; indeed this species is a very important component of the diet of many European birds of prey, so much so that creation of grasslands suitable for field voles has been shown to boost populations of kestrels and barn owls. Breeding typically takes place between April and September, but births may occur throughout the year when conditions are good. Between 2 and 7 litters are produced each year, each consisting of 4-6 young. The maximum lifespan for field voles is 18 months, although very few individuals survive to reach their second autumn. Edited by Taipan, Dec 22 2012, 01:40 PM.
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5:03 AM Jul 12