Water voles (Arvicola terrestris)

Water voleThe water vole has been identified as the fastest declining mammal in the UK this century. The familiar little creature with its characteristic 'plop' as it dives into the water is disappearing fast from the Deveron, Bogie and Isla banks. The few that are left seem to be taking refuge in the headwaters in the Cabrach area.

MinkThere is growing evidence that the American mink - a major predator - is responsible for the decline in numbers. We are keen to hear from people who have seen water voles or mink at any time.

Further information is available from The Scottish Wildlife Trust web site.

Current status of the water vole

Current factors affecting water voles

Action plan for north east Scotland

Prof. Xavier Lambin's paper

Water vole fact file

The water vole (Arvicola terrestris) is a rodent and is a member of the largest and one of the most successful order of mammels in the world

Three native voles are found in Britain. The water vole is larger than the other two - the field vole and the bank vole.

Like all rodents our vole has growing incisors which act as chisels aiding gnawing for tunneling and eating.

Essentially herbivorous, the water vole consumes some 227 different plant species - needing 80% of its own body weight daily.

They are active both day and night. Over the winter up to 70% of the population may die.

A female will have 2 or 3 litters a year with an average of 5 young born.

A water vole could live up to 3 years although few survive more than 4-6 months.

The otter may be the saviour of the water vole as mink, a keen predator, may move out of an area where there are otters.



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