Meadow Vole

Microtus pennsylvanicus

With its short legs and short tail, the Meadow Vole looks part hamster and part mouse. Often called field mice, Meadow Voles tunnel under the grass in hayfields, meadows, and grassy strips along roads. They are preyed upon by many predators but keep their numbers up by having litters every month of the year.

Look For : A good-size brown mouse with a short tail and small ears.

Length : Body 4-5" long, tail 1-3" long; up to 3 oz.

Habitat : Fields, meadows, marshes, and grassy areas along highways.

Range : Alaska, Canada, and northern U.S., south to New Mexico in the West and Georgia in the East.