This time last week we were shoveling snow -- 20" of it in my neighborhood. With today's rain and 50 degree temperature, the snow is rapidly melting, thus revealing the networks of tunnels made by meadow voles. The extent and complexity of their trail systems is impressive. The cover provided by snow keeps them buffered from extreme cold and protects them from predators. Follow a vole runway long enough and you will find domes or tubes of cut grass. Food, warmth, and out of harm's way -- life is good under the snow.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Under the Cover of Snow
This time last week we were shoveling snow -- 20" of it in my neighborhood. With today's rain and 50 degree temperature, the snow is rapidly melting, thus revealing the networks of tunnels made by meadow voles. The extent and complexity of their trail systems is impressive. The cover provided by snow keeps them buffered from extreme cold and protects them from predators. Follow a vole runway long enough and you will find domes or tubes of cut grass. Food, warmth, and out of harm's way -- life is good under the snow.
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1 comment:
Wonderful discovery. Nice photograph, and I like this tail
about the trails under the snow. Fascinating little (blind ?) creatures that seem to be almost everywhere. Also a prime diet for winter Fox I understand. So many winter trails to learn about.
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