Common vole

Classification: mammals
Size: 8 – 13 cm, 15 – 40 g
Lifespan: 8 months – 1.5 years
Red List Category: LC – least concern

It is one of our most common small mammals. Typically, it has brown to gray-brown coloring, and the tail makes up 30-40% of its body length.

It is alert both day and night. The vole digs underground burrows that are approximately 10-20 cm deep and are connected by a network of corridors. Its presence can be detected by numerous burrow exits connected by trodden paths on the surface. In its burrow system, the vole builds a nest from dried grass.

Breeding starts in March. After three weeks, the female gives birth to an average of 4-7 cubs, which can be sexually active after only a few weeks.

It is a typical species of a dry and openly cultivated landscape, seeking cultivated fields, meadows, pastures, and forest edges. Its food is mainly leaves and stems of plants, seeds, and roots. The common vole is an important food source for carnivores, raptors, and owls.

Do you know?
The food amount which the vole consumes daily represents more than 100% of its own body weight.