Species MammalsCalifornia Vole

California Vole

Microtus californicus

CommonMammal
Illustration of California Vole (Microtus californicus)

The California Vole is abundant in the grasslands and chaparral of California and adjacent states, with dense populations that surge dramatically in wet years. It is a key prey species for California's raptors, including the Short-eared Owl and White-tailed Kite. Like other voles, it creates grass runways and eats grasses and forbs at the surface and in shallow burrows.

Habitat
California grasslands, weedy fields, and chaparral margins
Diet
Green grasses, forbs, and seeds
How common
Common

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