Wildlifeof China
Root Vole
Rats, Mice, Voles & PorcupinesAlexandromys oeconomus
Basic stats
Diet
Grasses, sedges and seeds
Habitat
Damp tundra and moist meadows near water
Range
Northern and central Europe, Asia and northwestern North America
Litter size
3–9 young
Size
About 18cm plus a 4cm tail
Weight
About 50g
The root vole, also called the tundra vole, has short ears and a short tail. Its coat is yellowish brown with paler flanks and white underparts. Adults are typically about 18cm long with a 4cm tail and weigh around 50g; males are larger than females. (Wikipedia, general species account)
Across its broad northern range it favours damp tundra and moist meadows near water. It remains active all year, making surface runways in summer and snow tunnels in winter, and stores seeds and roots in burrows. Food includes grasses, sedges and seeds. Females produce three to six litters, each containing three to nine young. (Wikipedia, general species account)
Quick answers
- What does the Root Vole eat?
- Grasses, sedges and seeds
- What habitat does the Root Vole live in?
- Damp tundra and moist meadows near water
- Where is the Root Vole found?
- Northern and central Europe, Asia and northwestern North America
- What is the litter size of the Root Vole?
- 3–9 young
- How big is the Root Vole?
- About 18cm plus a 4cm tail
- How much does the Root Vole weigh?
- About 50g