Rock vole facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rock vole |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Microtus
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| Species: |
chrotorrhinus
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The rock vole (Microtus chrotorrhinus) is a small, mouse-like animal called a vole. It lives in the eastern parts of North America. People sometimes call it the yellow-nosed vole because of its distinctive nose.
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What Does a Rock Vole Look Like?
The rock vole is a medium-sized vole. It looks a bit like the larger taiga vole. It has short ears and a tail that is about 5 centimeters (2 inches) long. The underside of its tail is lighter in color.
Its fur is a mix of grey and brown. The fur on its belly is grey. One of its most special features is its yellowish nose, which is why it's also known as the yellow-nosed vole! An adult rock vole is usually about 15 centimeters (6 inches) long, including its tail. It weighs around 39 grams (1.4 ounces), which is about the same as a small candy bar.
Where Do Rock Voles Live?
Rock voles like to live in wet, rocky areas. You can find them on slopes in eastern Canada and the northeastern United States. They often make little paths, called runways, through the plants on the ground. They also dig shallow burrows underground to live in.
These voles usually live together in small groups or colonies. They prefer places where there are lots of rocks and moisture.
What Do Rock Voles Eat?
Rock voles are mostly plant-eaters. They enjoy munching on different kinds of grasses and mosses. They also dig for underground fungi, which are like mushrooms that grow under the soil. Berries are another favorite food, especially a type called bunchberry. Sometimes, they will also eat caterpillars.
Like many small animals, rock voles have predators. Animals that hunt and eat them include hawks, owls, snakes, and other small carnivorous mammals.
Rock Vole Life Cycle and Habits
Female rock voles can have two or three litters of babies each year. Each litter usually has four to seven young voles.
Rock voles are active all year round, even in winter. They are mainly active during the day, but they are very good at hiding. This means you might not often see them! In some areas, the rock vole is considered a "species of concern." This means that scientists are keeping an eye on their populations to make sure they stay healthy and don't become endangered.
See also
In Spanish: Microtus chrotorrhinus para niños
