Wild Guide: Voles

By MDC | November 1, 2024
From Missouri Conservationist: November 2024
Body

Voles

Microtus

Status

Common

Size

Total length: about 4½–7 inches; weight: to about 2 ounces

Distribution

Statewide

Voles are small, stocky mouselike rodents. There are three species in Missouri, all quite similar, including the prairie, woodland, and meadow vole. They build runway systems above and below ground and build nests out of woven grasses and other materials. They live in moist, low areas with thick grasses, and in drier grasslands near streams, lakes, or swamps.

Media
Photo of two prairie voles in a nest made of dried grasses
Title

This Issue's Staff

Magazine Manager - Stephanie Thurber
Editor - Angie Daly Morfeld
Associate Editor - Larry Archer
Photography Editor – Ben Nickelson
Staff Writer - Kristie Hilgedick
Staff Writer - Joe Jerek
Staff Writer – Dianne Van Dien
Designer - Marci Porter
Designer – Lyndsey Yarger
Photographer - Noppadol Paothong
Photographer - David Stonner
Circulation – Marcia Hale