A quintessential example of semi-aquatic mammal life that thrives within the diverse wetland ecosystems stretching across Europe and into parts of Asia. This medium-sized rodent, typically spanning 14-22 cm (6-9 inches) in body length with an additional tail length of approximately 10 cm (4 inches), showcases a range of physical adaptations that enable its survival and proficiency in aquatic environments. Among these adaptations is its dense, waterproof fur, which provides insulation and buoyancy, allowing the water vole to maintain its body temperature and float more easily while swimming.
Moreover, the European water vole’s large hind feet, complete with webbed toes, are evolutionary enhancements that facilitate effective swimming and diving. These physical traits, combined with their strong and compact bodies, make them adept swimmers, capable of navigating the often challenging and dynamic waters of their wetland habitats.
Dietarily, the European water vole primarily consumes a variety of aquatic vegetation, including reeds, grasses, and leaves, playing a critical role in maintaining the health and balance of their ecosystems. Feeding on these plants helps to control plant growth and contributes to the structural complexity and diversity of wetland vegetation. This not only impacts the physical environment but also influences the broader ecological community by affecting the distribution of plant species and the habitat availability for other organisms.
Despite their ecological significance, European water voles face numerous threats that have led to a decline in their populations across their range. Habitat loss and degradation, primarily due to agricultural expansion, urban development, and pollution, pose significant challenges to their survival. Additionally, predation pressure from introduced species, such as the American mink, has had a substantial impact on water vole populations.
Distribution
Afghanistan
Albania
Armenia
Austria
Azerbaijan
Belarus
Belgium
Bosnia And Herz.
Bulgaria
China
Croatia
Czechia
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Georgia
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Iran
Iraq
Israel
Italy
Kazakhstan
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Moldova
Mongolia
Montenegro
Netherlands
North Macedonia
Norway
Poland
Romania
Russia
Serbia
Slovakia
Slovenia
Sweden
Switzerland
Syria
Turkey
Ukraine
United KingdomAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd / Group
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
