Wild Wednesday - Field vole
Tiny, furry and rarely seen, the field vole is one of the UK's most common mammals, with an estimated population of up to 75 million. Despite their vast numbers, most of us have probably walked past them without ever noticing them.
Also known as the short-tailed vole, these small rodents live in grasslands, meadows, heathland and woodland edges, creating networks of hidden runways beneath long grass. They spend much of their lives scurrying through these tunnels, feeding on grasses, leaves and roots.
Helping wildlife thrive
Field voles are an important part of the food chain and provide a vital food source for barn owls, kestrels, foxes, stoats and weasels. In fact, when vole numbers increase, some birds of prey can successfully raise more chicks.
A female field vole can produce up to six litters a year, with several young in each litter. That's one reason why they remain one of Britain's most abundant mammals.
Hidden highways in the grass
So next time you're out for a walk in one of West Sussex's parks, meadows or nature reserves, take a closer look at the long grass. Those tiny pathways weaving through the vegetation could be the work of a busy field vole.
Read more here: Field vole | The Wildlife Trusts