![]() Types of Voles found in India In India there are several species adapted to the temperate conditions of the Himalayan ranges. In the north-western parts exit two large species of voles known for their strongly burrowing habits. These are True's Vole (Hyperacrius fertilis) and the Murree Vole (H.wynnei), both of which extend from Pakistan into Kashmir. The former type is found in alpine meadows above the tree-line whilst the latter is associated with mixed coniferous and deciduous forest in the lower or outer hill ranges and has become quite a serious pest of apple orchards, gnawing the bark at the base of the tree trunk. In the remote hillly areas at higher altitudes there are two more high-altitude voles with longer tails and less fossorial habits. Royle's Vole (Alticola roylei) and the Sikkim Vole (Pitymys sikimensis). The former occurs in the western part of the Himalayas from Pakistan to Kimaon, whilst the latter occurs in Sikkim. Baluchistan forms the easternmost range of the Mole Vole (Ellobius fuscocapillus) which is the most adapted of all to a fossorial life, having almost lost the power of vision and with tiny ears hidden in its short velvety body fur. Habitat of Voles in India Voles, small rodents ranging from 8 to 23 cm in size, are found across various regions of India. These creatures, characterized by their rapid reproductive rates, pose challenges in pest control due to their prolific breeding habits. Females can give birth to five to ten litters annually, with an average lifespan of three months and reaching adulthood within a month. Gestation lasts for approximately three weeks, and young voles attain sexual maturity within a month, contributing to their exponential population growth. This reproductive pattern enables vole populations to expand rapidly, with one mating pair capable of producing up to 100 offspring in a single year. Despite their distinctive features, voles may outwardly resemble other small animals such as moles, gophers, mice, rats, and shrews, making identification and management efforts more challenging. Diet of Voles Voles in India feed on seeds, conifer needles, tubers, bark and a number of green vegetation like clover and grass as well as insects. There are also some species of Voles which even die if unable to get their main meal which comprises of Douglas fir needles. Voles form the food of several predators like raccoons, owls, martens, hawks, foxes, snakes, coyotes and the red tailed hawk, cats and weasels. The most common enemies of Voles are the short-eared owl, the Saw-whet Owl, the northern spotted owl, the Northern Pygmy Owl and the barn Owl. Threats and Conservation The mountain vole, with its expansive range, is believed to harbor a sizable population within India. It inhabits various protected areas, including Khangchendzonga National Park in Sikkim. Although the population trend remains uncertain, the species faces threats primarily from the loss of suitable habitat, the introduction of invasive species, and predation by domestic dogs and cats. These factors collectively endanger the persistence of the mountain vole population in India. |