Mammal ð
ð
Arvicola amphibius
| Size | 14â22 cm About the size of a large computer mouse |
|---|---|
| Weight | 150â350 g About the weight of a small tin of tuna |
| Lifespan | 2â3 years |
| Rarity | Rare |
| M vs F | Males are slightly larger; otherwise sexes look identical |
| Habitat | Riverbanks with dense vegetation, reedbeds, ditches, streams |
| Best time | AprilâOctober (most active) |
| Conservation | UK: Red LC |
Did you know?
The Water Vole â Ratty from 'The Wind in the Willows' â has declined by 95% in the UK since the 1970s, making it one of our most threatened mammals
The Water Vole â Ratty from 'The Wind in the Willows' â has declined by 95% in the UK since the 1970s, making it one of our most threatened mammals
More for experts
Introduced American Mink are the single biggest driver of Water Vole decline â a single mink can decimate an entire riverside population within months
Often confused with
Brown Rat (longer, scaly tail, larger ears, pointed snout), Field Vole (shorter, inland, no swimming)
Brown Rat (longer, scaly tail, larger ears, pointed snout), Field Vole (shorter, inland, no swimming)