Bank vole
Myodes glareolus
Conservation status: Common
When to see: January to December
About
The bank vole, also known as the European bank vole, is a small and compact rodent that is typically found in Western Europe. Weighing in at just over an ounce, these tiny critters have short ears and tails, round bodies, and a slightly reddish-brown fur color. They are good climbers and can be found mainly in hedgerows, woodland edges and on grassy slopes near rivers. These little animals live in burrows along river banks or under tree roots which are lined with moss or feathers to keep them warm during cold winters. Bank voles are omnivorous creatures that feed on seeds, nuts, insects and fruits but they prefer small animals such as slugs or caterpillars whenever they get a chance to catch one. These mice play an essential role in maintaining ecosystems by dispersing plant seeds and serving as prey for larger animals such as owls and foxes.
| See also different: | Garden mammals |
