The European Pine Vole, a small rodent that burrows through snow like moles or voles in coniferous forests throughout Europe and Asia. This flexible nature of theirs makes them extremely important in their respective ecosystems as they literally define the forest floor around us and steer plants, animals.
A Master of Disguise
Grayish-brown in color, the European Pine Vole blends in well with it forest-floor surroundings. These animals are nocturnal, and they come out at dusk to search for food. They have big eyes and long, sensitive whiskers to help them navigate their underground world.
A Specialized Diet
European Pine Voles have a herbivorous diet consisting primarily of seeds, roots and bark. They especially like the seeds of conifers, including pine and spruce (Miskovsky 1964b). With strong incisors they gnaw through thick plant materials which their molars then grind and chew effectively.
A Complex Social Structure
This might be a little nestling European Pine Vole. They build complex burrow systems, which serve as a protective shelter and food storage. These extensive burrows may be several meters long, with multiple entrances and exits. Cooperation occurs in tending the burrows, defending against predators and rearing new generations within these colonies.
High Impacts on Forest Ecosystems
Forests take a big hit from European Pine Voles. Their burrowing can modify the physical and biological properties of soil thereby promoting nutrient cycling, structural development including improved drainage. They also play a role in seed dispersal to help forest regeneration. But in high numbers, they will harm young trees by gnawing the bark from them.
Conservation Concerns
Although European Pine Voles are not listed as threatened, they have been affected by habitat loss and fragmentation. Deforestation, changes in forest management practices and climate change can all create unsuitable habitat for these rodents.
Preserving them means to work for the conservation of healthy forests and a sustainable development of forestry. With the related information above, you can also see their ecological roles in forest ecosystems and help for ensuring European Pine Vole survival.