The California Vole is abundant in the grasslands and chaparral of California and adjacent states, with dense populations that surge dramatically in wet years. It is a key prey species for California's raptors, including the Short-eared Owl and White-tailed Kite. Like other voles, it creates grass runways and eats grasses and forbs at the surface and in shallow burrows.
Best time to see a California Vole
The best time to see a California Vole is February–July, when about 65% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 1,970 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a California Vole? What animal is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent California Vole sightings near you
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