Field Vole

Microtus agrestis

The field vole or short-tailed vole, ''Microtus agrestis'', is a grey-brown vole, around 110mm in length, with only a short tail. They are one of the most common mammals in Europe, ranging from the Atlantic coast to Lake Baikal.
Field Vole (Microtus agrestis) I was surprised to find this little'un running up and down a small high-sided concreted area immediately outside my kitchen door, at the back of my house.

I assume it had found its way there, but not being a strong climber like many rodents, had yet to find its way out. 

I gently ushered it into a shoe then lifted it up where it could escape into the undergrowth. 

It seemed to like my shoe because it stayed there for a good twenty minutes before finally emerging. After a minute or so composing itself, it toddled off, with a tear in its eye I'm sure.

The video, with further information on Field Voles can be seen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEsNoAzRIjY Fall,Field Vole,Geotagged,Microtus agrestis,United Kingdom

Habitat

They are found in moist grassy habitats, such as woodland, marsh, or river banks. Although they dig burrows, they usually build nests above ground.
Baby Field Voles Baby Field Voles. Discovered whilst clearing allotment plots. Nest and family safely moved to a better, safer position. http://martin-way-plot30.blogspot.co.uk/2013/06/a-multitude-of-creatures.html Field Vole,Microtus agrestis

Reproduction

As an important food source for owls and some other predators, their population peaks and troughs in a four-year cycle. Field voles breed at a great rate, mainly in summer, but often all year round, even under snow. females produce up to seven litters a year, each averaging from four to six young, which are weaned after only 14 days.

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Status: Least concern
EX EW CR EN VU NT LC
Taxonomy
KingdomAnimalia
DivisionChordata
ClassMammalia
OrderRodentia
FamilyCricetidae
GenusMicrotus
SpeciesM. agrestis
Photographed in
United Kingdom