Page 98 - AG 7-2011 Revised 2016

Vole Meadow Mouse or Vole
typical feeding behavior

Drawing by Andrew Schaible Photo Courtesy of UNIVAR

Meadow Mouse or Vole Meadow Mouse or Vole
typical feeding behavior typical feeding behavior

Photo Courtesy of UNIVAR Photo Courtesy of UNIVAR

Life Cycle Vole

Nests are built of grasses or other vegetation on or near the
surface. Voles give birth in three weeks after mating. Three
to nine young can be produced in each litter, with litters
peaking in the spring and somewhat in the fall, so more than
one generation can be produced each year.

5“

Drawing by Andrew Schaible

Actual size 5 “ body

Voles can get into houses, but that is not their usual environment, and they will not stay and set up a
nest. They are also known as Meadow mice, Field mice, and Orchard mice. They are about twice as
large and heavy as a House mouse, the body being 5-6 inches long with a shorter tail. Voles can be a
problem for crops, fruit trees, ornamentals, and landscaped areas. They feed on grasses and just about
any green vegetation.

WORKING SAFELY WITH RODENTICIDES

Rodenticides have a fairly good safety record, especially when handled according to instructions. Baits generally
contain low toxicity levels of active ingredients, but specific care must be used, especially in their placement.
The application of rodenticides must take into account the placement in relation to children, pets and non-
targeted animals. Many pets, especially dogs, ingest the baits and may require treatment by a veterinarian. It is
important that baits are not left where contact by children and pets can occur. Fortunately, no long-term adverse
effects have been noticed when children or pets recover from the initial poisoning.
In placing the rodenticide, it must be left where the target rodent CAN have access, but specifically where
unintended contact will not happen. Select the right bait for the targeted pest, and read the label carefully. In the
same way, follow the label recommendations for the right amount to use for the job.

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