TaxonHub

California Vole

Microtus californicus

A small rodent endemic to the western coastal regions of North America, primarily inhabiting grasslands, agricultural areas, and forest edges in California and adjacent states.

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Ecology & Habitat

Habitat

Coastal grasslands, meadows, agricultural landscapes, woodland margins, and riparian zones in California and Oregon, with elevation ranges from sea level to 2,700 meters.

Ecological Role

Critical seed disperser, prey species for raptors and carnivorous mammals, and plays a significant role in ecosystem nutrient cycling through burrowing and foraging activities.

Morphology

SKIN COAT Dense, short fur typically grayish-brown to dark brown, providing camouflage and thermal regulation
LIMBS WINGS Short, sturdy limbs with sharp claws specialized for digging burrows and tunneling through dense vegetation
HEAD SENSORY Relatively large ears, small eyes, short blunt snout with sensitive whiskers for navigation and environmental perception
BODY STRUCTURE Small-bodied rodent, typically 12-18 cm in total length, weighing 25-45 grams, with a compact, robust build adapted for underground and surface movement

Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Bureau of Land Management

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Related Species in Cricetidae

Microtus duodecimcostatus

Microtus ochrogaster

Microtus longicaudus