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Home » Animals » Reed vole

Reed vole

Living habits

The reed vole inhabits wet meadows, riverbanks and reed beds, where dense vegetation provides shelter from predators. Unlike most voles, it is an excellent swimmer and moves easily through water. Its diet consists of various grasses, leaves, shoots and roots. Females build their nests among vegetation and can produce up to six litters during the breeding season, which extends from spring to autumn.

Protection

GLOBAL CONSERVATION STATUS:

The reed vole has a wide distribution across East Asia and is classified globally as a species of Least Concern. It adapts well to a variety of habitats and reproduces rapidly, helping to maintain healthy populations. However, local populations may be affected by changes to their habitat.

Reed vole

Alexandromys fortis

Order: Rodentia – Rodents

Family: Cricetidae – Moles

Size: Body length 12 – 14 cm

Breeding: The breeding season extends from summer to late autumn, during which females can produce up to six litters. The gestation period lasts 17–20 days, and each litter typically consists of 5–8 young.

Did you know…

The reed vole is one of the largest vole species in the world. It also has a remarkable appetite and can consume up to its own body weight in plant material in a single day.