Where are Water Vole found in the wild?

Water voles thrive in lush, green areas across Europe, especially near rivers, lakes, and wetlands. They love habitats rich in vegetation, where they find yummy grasses and roots to munch on while they swim and play.

"Water vole Arvicola amphibius 1 RSPB Ttitchwell Norfolk 040913" by Mick Sway is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0

Water Vole

Meet the delightful swimmers of Europe’s vibrant waterways!

"Water vole Arvicola amphibius 1 RSPB Ttitchwell Norfolk 040913" by Mick Sway is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0

The Basics

Scientific Name

Arvicola amphibius

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Location

Europe

Average size

8 to 10 inches long

diet

Grasses, roots, fruits

lifespan

5 years

Let’s Explore

Overview

The water vole is a delightful creature that calls Europe home and belongs to the rodent family. With a body length ranging from 20 to 25 centimeters (8 to 10 inches), this furry little friend loves to munch on plants by the water's edge.
Water voles have thick fur that keeps them cozy and warm in their watery habitats. These charming mammals have short tails and round faces, giving them an adorable appearance that makes them a joy to spot along riverbanks.
These critters feast on a diet rich in grasses, roots, and fruits. They are true snacker extraordinaires, choosing tasty treats like clover and willow to enjoy while they lounge around.
Life can be quite simple for the water vole. They usually live around five years, making the most of their time swimming, foraging, and playing in their lush green surroundings.
Water voles are skilled swimmers and can hold their breath underwater for over 30 seconds! With their webbed feet, they glide through the water like little furry torpedoes, making them stand out in their habitat.
Despite their charming looks, these fluffy rodents play a vital role in their ecosystem. They create burrows along riverbanks that help stabilize the soil and support the lovely plants and animals around them.

Where can you find a Water Vole in the wild?

What does a Water Vole eat?

How big can a Water Vole grow?

How long does a Water Vole typically live?

What is the conservation status of the Water Vole?

What are the main threats to the Water Vole?

wowzerful facts

Water voles are expert swimmers, using their webbed feet to paddle through the water like Olympic athletes, reaching speeds of up to 1 meter per second (about 2.2 miles per hour).

These furry friends have clever ways to stay safe; they can quickly dive underwater and swim to their burrows, holding their breath for over 30 seconds to escape danger.

Water voles have a strong sense of smell, which helps them find tasty food and navigate the lush greenery where they live. They can sniff out delicious plants even when they are hidden!

The water vole is an important gardener in its ecosystem. By nibbling on aquatic plants, they help keep waterways healthy and encourage new plant growth, acting like nature's landscapers.

Water voles communicate using a variety of squeaks and grunts, making them a chatty bunch! Their sounds help them keep in touch with family and friends while they are out exploring.

These adorable creatures are quite the fashionistas! Water voles have thick fur that keeps them warm and dry while swimming, allowing them to sport their fuzzy coats with pride.

When water voles build their homes, they create intricate burrows with multiple entrances, making them the ultimate hide-and-seek champions of the wetlands.

These playful animals enjoy a little social time! Water voles often live in family groups, sharing their tasty treats and engaging in friendly games while basking in the sun by the water.

Water voles have a special talent for decorating their nests! They line their cozy homes with soft grasses and feathers, turning them into luxurious retreats that are perfect for napping.