Microtus oeconomus (Pallas, 1776)

Tundra vole

Species recognized by The Integrated Taxonomic Information System external link, T Orrell (custodian) in 
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC) external link Showing: scientific names

Media Center Navigation

Microtus oeconomus (Pallas, 1776)

Images

Items in yellow are not reviewed.

Choose images

Microtus oeconomus (Pallas, 1776)
Microtus oeconomus (Pallas, 1776)
Microtus oeconomus (Pallas, 1776)

Page navigation

Classification : Text | Graphic |
  

Table of Contents

General Description

Description

Source and Additional Information
Supplier
Smithsonian's North American Mammals external link
Copyright
Some rights reserved external link
Project
Smithsonian Institution - North American Mammals external link
Location
Source URL
View original data object external link
Citation

Tundra Voles have the northernmost distribution of any North American species of Microtus. They are widespread in northern latitudes in Eurasia, too, where they are known as Root Voles, and probably migrated to North America across the Bering land-bridge during the Pleistocene. They prefer moist meadow habitats, particularly near lakes, streams, and marshes. Tundra Voles are active year-round. In the fall, they store food—grass seeds and other plant materials—for winter. Many northern predators depend on this species, including weasels, Wolverines, Arctic Foxes, falcons, gulls, and owls.

Links:
Mammal Species of the World
References
  • Pallas, P. S., 1771-1776.  Reise durch verschiedene Provinzen des Russischen Reichs. St. Petersbourg, 3:693.
"Microtus oeconomus (Pallas, 1776)". Encyclopedia of Life, available from "http://www.eol.org/pages/1037789". Accessed 20 Mar 2010.