BRITISH MAMMALS 



THE COMMON FIELD VOLE, 



Microtus agrestis, Linnaeus. 

 Plate 31. 



This species may be distinguished at a glance from the Bank Vole by its 

 larger and rounder head, blunter muzzle, and by the ears being more or less 

 concealed by the fur. The tail is also much shorter and the colour duller. 



The average length of the head and body is about 4 inches, that of the 

 tail about \\ inches. 



The general colour of the upper parts is a greyish brown, the under 

 surface dull white or grey. Some individuals are brighter than others, with 

 a more russet tinge on the back. 



There are few cultivated areas in Europe where the Field Vole or 

 closely allied races do not occur, and throughout Great Britain and many of 

 its islands the species is abundant wherever there is sufficient grass land to 

 suit its habits. 



In the Orkneys its place is taken by the large Orkney Vole, but the 

 common form, or at least closely related forms, inhabit many of the 

 Hebridean Islands. It is not known in Ireland. 



Sociable in its habits, colonies, often consisting of a large number of 

 individuals, are generally to be found among the rough pasturage of 

 meadows or sheep-walks, especially in luxuriant moist localities, as this 

 species is fond of water. In such places their runs may be seen spreading 

 in all directions, either winding among the herbage or tunnelled under the 

 surface of the ground. 



From the earHest times in history attention has been directed to the 

 destruction caused to crops and pasturage by these animals, when favourable 



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