Meadow Vole Microtus pennsylvanicus

Identification
This vole has brown fur and a short tail. It creates runways through dense vegetation.

Location
Common statewide

Size
1 to 2 ounces

Diet
It feeds on grasses seeds and bark.

Habitat
It occurs in meadows and wetlands across Ohio.

Activity Period
Year round

Behavior
It is active day and night and breeds rapidly. It is active year round.

Lifecycle
Breeding occurs throughout the year.

Population
The population is stable statewide.

History
It has long been widespread in Ohio.

Human Interactions
It may damage crops and gardens.

Facts
It is a key prey species for many predators.

Sources
ODNR academic sources

Grasses seeds bark | Meadows fields wetlands | Statewide