NPS Gallery Montane Vole (Microtus montanus)Appearance: The dorsal coloration of the montane vole varies from gray-brown to black, and the belly is white. Lifespan: They generally have a short lifespan, with most individuals living between 6 and 12 months in the wild. Size: They are medium-sized voles, with a total length of 14 to 22 cm (5.5 to 8.7 in), including the 2 to 7 cm (0.79 to 2.76 in) tail. Habitat: The preferred habitats of the montane vole are meadows and fields in mountain valleys. Diet: Montane voles are herbivores, eating grasses, roots, and other plant material. Reproduction: The species breeds throughout the spring and summer, and produces multiple litters each year; average litter size is six. 
NPS Gallery Bushy-tailed Woodrat (Neotoma cinerea)Appearance: They have large eyes, big ears and long, full whiskers. Lifespan: Bushy-tailed woodrats typically have a lifespan of 2-3 years in the wild. Size: Medium-sized rodent, typically weighing between 7 and 21 ounces and measuring 13 to 17 inches in length, including their bushy tail. Their tail can be 5 to 7.5 inches long, making them easily identifiable. Males are generally larger than females, with males averaging about 50% larger. Habitat: The woodrat is common in Utah, where it may be found in high-elevation rocky habitats state-wide. The species is active throughout the year and is primarily nocturnal. Diet: They feed primarily on leaves, twigs, seeds, and fruits. They may store food in their dens. Reproduction: They have a highly seasonal breeding period, primarily occuring in spring and summer (May-August). Females can produce multiple litters per year, potentially up to three, with litter sizes averaging around three, but can reach up to six. They are known to breed again within 12 hours of giving birth, meaning they can be pregnant with one litter while nursing another. Gestation is approximately 27-32 days. |
Last updated: June 7, 2025