Meadow Vole Massachusetts | Slide Mouse
They breed rapidly and experience population booms every few years which leads population densities to measure in the hundreds of voles per single acre of land.
Meadow vole massachusetts. Voles are ground dwelling rodents that are commonly referred to as meadow mice ground moles or field mice. In eastern massachusetts meadow vole density on a mosaic of grassy fields and mixed woods was positively correlated with decreasing vertical woody stem density and decreasing shrub cover. Voles have small rounded ears that are often hidden by their fur small eyes and short tails. Many people become aware of the presence of meadow voles after a winter thaw where they see significant damage to their lawn and the associated tunneling once the ice cap melts.
The meadow vole microtus pennsylvanicus is the only type of vole we have in massachusetts. Two common species of voles in north america are the prairie vole and the meadow vole. These pests are small with an adult vole typically reaching about five to seven inches in length. Those in southern parts of their range are usually larger exhibiting darker coloration.
Cricetidae mice voles and lemmings common name scientific name distribution. The meadow vole is one of 61 species in the genus microtus. The size and color of this large vole depend on location. 162 181 mm the meadow vole is a rodent with a rounded stocky body and a blunt nose.
The vole of muskeget island is sometimes considered a separate species microtus breweri. Meadow voles are more widely distributed but prairie voles are more common in prairie areas. Meadow voles are the most common vole species in the united states. Baby voles are able to have kids of their own in as little as a month and they re pregnant for a month.
They re around 6 8 long. Voles are also often called meadow mice. The genus microtus contains about half of all vole species. Its closest living relative is the beach vole m.
Their fur is generally thick and light brown to gray. Voles are very closely related to hamsters. Central and western massachusetts. They have curved ears which they press flat against their body in order to burrow nicely through their grassy tunnels.
A vole typically only lives for 3 6 months.