Species MammalsSinging Vole

Singing Vole

Microtus miurus

UncommonMammal
Illustration of Singing Vole (Microtus miurus)

The Singing Vole of Alaska and Yukon is named for the low, chipping vocalizations that individuals produce while gathering and piling vegetation in haypiles—behavior similar to pikas. Unlike most voles, it does not hibernate and relies on its dried haypiles to survive the harsh Arctic winter. Its back has a buffy mid-dorsal stripe and the overall color is more yellowish than other tundra voles.

Habitat
Arctic and subarctic tundra with rocky outcrops and shrubs
Diet
Grasses, sedges, willows, and stored haypiles
How common
Uncommon

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