Voles are small, common rodents found across various landscapes. They construct nests that provide shelter, protection from predators, and warmth against environmental elements. Understanding the appearance and characteristics of these nests can assist in identifying their presence in a given area.
Key Features of Vole Nests
Vole nests are typically small, spherical or dome-shaped structures. These compact nests usually measure between 4 to 8 inches (10 to 20 cm) in diameter, resembling a woven ball of plant material. They are primarily constructed from fine, shredded plant fibers.
These materials often consist of dry grasses, soft leaves, and various plant stems. Some nests may also incorporate moss or animal fur for added insulation. The plant fibers are tightly interwoven, creating a dense and protective exterior. The interior of the nest is often lined with finer, softer plant material.
Where Vole Nests are Found
Vole nests are commonly situated in areas offering ample concealment and protection. Many nests are found above ground, nestled within dense, overgrown vegetation. These locations include thick tussocks of grass, under fallen logs, or beneath brush piles.
Some vole species also construct nests underground within shallow burrows or tunnels. These underground nests are typically found just beneath the soil surface. Nest placement is closely linked to the vole’s preferred habitats, such as grassy fields, meadows, and areas with abundant ground cover.
Differentiating Vole Nests from Other Burrows
Distinguishing a vole nest from other small animal burrows requires attention to specific details. Mouse nests, for instance, are generally smaller, often measuring 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm), and might incorporate varied materials like fabric scraps when found near human structures. Vole nests, in contrast, are almost exclusively constructed from plant-based materials and tend to be larger.
Shrew nests are also small but often appear less structurally defined, sometimes being a loose collection of materials in a hidden crevice. Shrew tunnels are typically narrower than those made by voles. Mole activity is identified by characteristic molehills, which are large mounds of excavated soil. Vole burrows are much smaller, usually 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5 to 4 cm) in diameter, and lack the prominent spoil piles associated with moles.