Gerbe's vole facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Gerbe's vole |
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| Conservation status | |
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| Genus: |
Microtus
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| Species: |
gerbii
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The Gerbe's vole or Pyrenean pine vole (Microtus gerbii or Microtus pyrenaicus) is a small rodent. It belongs to the family Cricetidae, which includes hamsters and lemmings. This tiny mammal makes its home in parts of France and Spain.
Contents
What is a Vole?
Voles are small rodents that look a bit like mice. They have short tails and small ears. Their bodies are usually plump. Gerbe's voles are a type of "pine vole." This means they often live in forests or areas with trees.
Where Gerbe's Voles Live
Gerbe's voles are found in the Pyrenees Mountains. These mountains form a natural border between France and Spain. They prefer areas with lots of plants and cover. This helps them stay safe from predators.
What Gerbe's Voles Look Like
Gerbe's voles are small, usually about 9 to 12 centimeters long. This is about the length of an adult's hand. They have soft, dense fur. Their fur is typically brownish-grey on their backs. Their undersides are a lighter grey or white. They have tiny eyes and ears that are almost hidden by their fur.
Life of a Gerbe's Vole
Gerbe's voles are mostly active during the day. They spend a lot of time looking for food. They also dig tunnels and burrows. These tunnels are their homes and safe places.
What Gerbe's Voles Eat
These voles are herbivores. This means they eat plants. Their diet includes roots, stems, and leaves. They also enjoy seeds and berries. Sometimes, they might eat insects too. They store food in their burrows for later.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Voles can reproduce quite quickly. A female vole can have several litters of babies each year. Each litter usually has a few tiny pups. The pups are born blind and helpless. They grow very fast. They are ready to leave their mother after a few weeks. Voles usually live for about one to two years in the wild.
Threats and Conservation
The Gerbe's vole is currently listed as "Least Concern." This means it is not in immediate danger of extinction. However, their habitats can be affected by human activities. Changes in land use can reduce their living spaces.
Protecting Their Home
Protecting the forests and natural areas where they live is important. This helps ensure that Gerbe's voles have enough food and shelter. It also helps other animals that share their habitat. Scientists continue to study these voles. This helps us understand them better.
See also
In Spanish: Microtus gerbei para niños
