The water vole, also known as the European water vole (lat. Arvicola amphibius), is a mammal from the family Cricetidae. This animal primarily inhabits riverbanks, lake and pond shores, but can also be found on meadows, gardens, fields, and in gardens. Despite its name, the water vole does not restrict itself to aquatic areas: during dry periods, it migrates, and after water levels drop, it returns to its previous habitats. The animal's body is oval-shaped, with a shortened snout and short ears. Its fur is soft and silky, its tail is covered in hair and ends in a brush about 0.5 cm long, distinguishing it from other rodents such as muskrats or rats. Body size varies depending on region and climatic conditions, body length ranges from 11 to 26 cm, and the tail reaches half to two-thirds of body length. Adult weight varies from 120 to 330 grams. The water vole's diet is varied and includes succulent plant shoots, tree bark, earthworms, and cultivated plants. Due to their voracity, these rodents can cause significant damage to agricultural crops, especially in large colonies capable of completely destroying vegetable crops. Additionally, they damage trees by eating bark at the base of the trunk. During winter, water voles store food, which helps them survive the cold season. Due to the significant damage water voles cause to agriculture, active control measures are taken against them. The use of poisons is limited, as they may damage plants. On large meadows, ultrasonic devices and traps are used for deterrence, while on small private plots, cats are often employed. This comprehensive approach allows effective control of these rodent populations and minimizes damage to agricultural crops.
