Voles are small, rodent-like mammals often mistaken for mice, though they possess a stouter body, a shorter, hairy tail, and smaller eyes and ears. These creatures inhabit diverse environments across the Northern Hemisphere. While voles share general physical characteristics, their fur coloration varies among species and individuals.
Common Vole Coloration
The typical dorsal, or back, coloration of voles ranges from shades of brown to gray or black. These hues, including reddish-brown, dark brown, and grayish-brown, provide effective camouflage in their natural habitats. For instance, the meadow vole (Microtus pennsylvanicus) commonly displays grizzled chestnut to yellowish-brown fur, sometimes mixed with black-tipped hairs, making its coat appear dark brown or grayish-brown. In contrast, the bank vole (Myodes glareolus) often exhibits distinct red-brown or reddish-chestnut brown fur on its back.
The ventral, or belly, fur of voles is typically lighter than their dorsal coat. This underside coloration is commonly grayish, whitish, buff, or cream. Meadow voles often have a silvery-gray, creamy white, or grayish-buff belly. Bank voles can have whitish-grey or silver-grey to whitish underparts, sometimes tinged with dull yellow.
The fur is generally dense and soft. The prairie vole (Microtus ochrogaster) has grayish to blackish-brown fur with whitish, yellowish, or rusty mixing, and a tan to grayish belly. Vole coloration is often earthy, helping them blend into their surroundings.
Factors Influencing Vole Appearance
Several factors influence vole coloration, including species-specific differences. Each vole species, such as the pine or woodland vole (Microtus pinetorum), possesses distinct color patterns and shades tailored to its ecological niche. The pine vole, for example, has soft, dense fur that can be brown to reddish-brown, with underparts mixed with yellow or cinnamon.
Age also plays a role in a vole’s appearance. Newborn voles are typically pink and hairless, developing fur quickly. Juvenile voles may exhibit slightly different fur textures or shades compared to adults, often appearing darker or greyer.
Geographic location and specific habitat conditions can lead to subtle color shifts within populations. Local populations may display variations that enhance camouflage. Some populations, such as certain bank voles, can even exhibit very dark, almost black, fur. Genetic variations, influenced by environmental factors, also contribute to these differences.
Seasonal changes can also impact a vole’s fur. Some voles may appear darker in winter, which can provide better insulation and camouflage. Conversely, fur may lighten in warmer months. Individual differences can occur, sometimes due to genetic mutations resulting in unique color variations like blond fur.