In Search of Snowbirds | Vole Scampering
Northern Michigan | 2/06/2017 4:56 pm Local Time | Fair 25°F Light Winds
In Search of Snowbirds | Vole Scampering This meadow vole sometimes called the field mouse or meadow mouse, is found across Canada, Alaska, northern United States. It is active year-round; usually at night. It digs underground burrows, where it stores food for the winter and where the females give birth to their young. After I captured several clicks, this particular vole ran to the bank of the lake and into its burrow along the lakeshore.
The Back Story After a nice walk on the frozen lake, I did not find any birds close enough to photograph. However, this vole out scampering in the snow covering the ice, maybe 30 feet from the shoreline. The photo was, of course, a simple click. The vole did not seem to be afraid of me, although I kept some distance.
Quick Facts…
| Vole Scampering … grey or brown fur, short tail & legs, blunt nose, tiny eyes, fur-covered ears. | |
| Habitat | Thrive in various habitats with dense ground cover. |
| Range | Year around in North America |
| Nest | Dig several burrows to use for shelter, protection, and nest. |
| Diet | Herbivorous: feed on grass, seeds, roots, stems, and leaves of plants. |
| Behavior | Active at all times of the year, day and night. Tthey do not hibernate. |
| Size | Length: 4-9 in | Weight: 2 oz |
