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Meadow Vole
Microtus pennsylvanicus
At-a-Glance
• Peak Breeding Activity: March-November
• Gestation period : 21 days
• Litter Size: 1-9
• Typical Foods: seeds, sedges, grain, grasses, and bark |
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Description
This species is usually dark brown in color with a silvery to slightly buffy or dark gray belly and bi-colored tail. The fur is long and soft.
Habitat and Habits
The meadow vole is the most widely distributed of the voles and can be found in meadows, fields, grassy marshes, and other places near streams, lakes, and swamps. A little known fact about meadow voles is that they are excellent swimmers.
Reproduction and Care of the Young
Meadow voles breed year round with most breeding activity taking place in March through November. Females care for the young in the nest until they are weaned at two weeks of age. |
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