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Hence, the number of colonies increases with individual number (i.e. population density). As common voles have a polygynous mating system the males do not maintain territories and move as so-called "floaters" between several females' territories in order to mate as often as possible. They can show overlap in territories.
Although water voles appear to have the ability to reproduce in large numbers, as do many other rodents, their population densities are actually kept very low and live in colonies of 8-40 individuals. [11] This may be due to the very short breeding season compared to other rodents who breed for 6 months or more. [6]
Voles prefer familiar mates through olfactory sensory exploitation. Monogamous voles prefer males who have yet to mate, while non-monogamous voles do not. [25] Mate preference in voles develops through cohabitation in as little as 24 hours. [24] This drives young male voles to show non-limiting preference toward female siblings.
"These small animals are not rodents, do not make tunnels, do little to no damage to plants, and often use the tunnels or runways of voles or moles," says Cooper. "Their diet consists mainly of ...
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The Amargosa vole possesses the ability to reproduce year-round, but highest rates of pregnancy are usually throughout March and April. [11] The voles require green vegetation for reproduction so the timing of peak gestation corresponds with plant emergence in the spring and is partially controlled by timing of first rainfall. [ 3 ]
Eastern meadow voles dig shallow burrows, [9] and in burrows, nests are constructed in enlarged chambers. In winter, nests are often constructed on the ground surface under a covering of snow, usually against some natural formation such as a rock or log. [8] [9] Eastern meadow voles form runways or paths in dense grasses. [8] [9]
The male prairie vole has continuous contact with its female counterpart, which lasts for all of their lives. If the female prairie vole dies, the male does not look for a new partner. Moreover, this constant relationship is more social than sexual. Related species, such as the meadow voles, do not show this pair bonding behavior. [9]