Cylindrical and compact, this small rodent has short legs and small ears ranging from 5 to 8.5 inches (approximately 139 to 216 mm), including the tail (which is about a third of that total length). Males weigh between 1.4 to 2.9 oz (41 to 81 g), while females weigh between 1.3 to 2.2 oz (36 to 63 g). A vole's fur is generally a cinnamon to tawny olive color, with occasional darker hairs. The underside is usually medium grey or bluish-grey.
California voles often inhabit areas with dense vegetation that provides cover. Primarily crepuscular (active during dawn and dusk) and nocturnal, Voles spend most of their time underground in burrows. Voles construct extensive underground burrows. Their burrows can range from 5 to 40 feet in length.
Voles are often found in groups comprising one male, multiple females, and their young. California voles can breed almost year-round, with a peak in the wet season. Females can have multiple litters per year, averaging 4-5 young per litter. Males may assist in nesting. Voles often use abandoned gopher tunnels as their burrow.
Photo by Pat Sinclair
Photo by Chris Wagner