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Prairie Vole
Microtus ochrogaster
At-a-Glance
• Typical Foods: seeds, roots, bark, and grass
• Ohio Status: Species of Concern
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Description
The prairie vole has grayish to dark brown hair with brownish-yellow tips, giving it a grizzled look. Its belly is whitish or yellowish and its tail is relatively short.
Habitat and Habits
These voles are common on prairies, fence rows, old cemeteries, and other fairly dry places. They build extensive underground burrow systems and use runways above ground.
Reproduction and Care of the Young
Female prairie voles share an underground, grass-lined nest with their mate. Females give birth to three or four young usually between May and October, although they breed throughout the year. |
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