Meadow Voles in Kailua Kona
The meadow vole, commonly known as the “meadow mouse” or “field mouse,” is widely spread across North America. They look similar to rats and mice but have shorter tails and thick, cylindrical bodies. Meadow voles are not typically found in homes or structures as they are poor climbers, preferring to spend their time underground in their intricate runway and tunnel systems that can damage turf and landscaping. They are prolific breeds and prefer to feed on plants, particularly grasses and seeds.
Meadow Vole Habitat
While meadow voles can be found scurrying above ground, they primarily live below ground in their burrow system. Their short, shallow burrows and underground nests made with grass, stems, and leaves are typically concealed by a protective layer of grass or ground cover. When pulling back overhanging ground cover, you may find their runways. Further evidence of voles includes fresh clippings of green grass and 3/16-inch-long greenish-colored droppings near the burrows.
Meadow Vole Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Meadow voles pose minimal public health risks as they rarely come in contact with humans; however, they can carry diseases like plague and tularemia. While they do not invade homes, they are considered a major pest for homeowners due to the substantial damage they cause to orchards, tree plantings, and field crops while foraging for food. Meadow Voles are also known to damage tree trunks from a few inches above and below the ground and ruin lawns, golf courses, and ground covers.If you suspect a meadow vole issue, contact your local rodent exterminators.
