Identification
Meadow Voles are small, mottled brown mammals similar in appearance to mice but they are larger, growing to a length of about 7 inches including tail. They are proportionally short-tailed compared to mice. These images are considered to be the western species based on distribution. The Eastern Meadow Vole (Microtus pennsylvanicus) ranges from Ohio eastward. The Western Meadow Vole is found from Ohio westward through central U.S., central Canada and through Alaska.
Voles are known to be common in both of our nature centers, but they are seldom seen. They are active day and night and in all seasons, but mostly below ground. Their tracks may be seen on fresh snow in winter. All photos were taken in the floodplain.
Meadow voles prefer moist habitats and are found generally near water. All the photos here were taken in the flood plain. However, with the drying of the great marsh and the drying of the habitat they may not be present in normal abundance. They are predated by many bird and mammal species.
The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Forest who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page is: Loren Padelford.