Field vole (Microtus agrestis)
Field Voles are small rodents with a stumpy body, short round ears and a short tail. Their colour varies from yellowish-brown to dark brown, with a light grey belly.They are one of the most common mammals in Europe.
Habitat
Field Voles live in grasslands, open woodlands, gardens and river banks.
Behaviour
Field Voles live in underground burrows, which are linked with a network of runs above ground. They also build nests above ground, such as under logs where they are hidden from sight. They can run very fast and swim to escape predators, such as owls, kestrels, buzzards, weasels and foxes.
Feeding
Field Voles eat plants, especially grasses, rushes and sedges. They sometimes eat insects.
Breeding
Field Voles mate between March and October and have several litters a year usually with 3-6 babies, which are able to breed after 5-6 weeks.