Myodes glareolus

The bank vole is the smallest of the vole species in Britain. It is common throughout most of the UK, but does not seem to occur higher than 600 metres above sea level. Bank voles do not hibernate and remain active throughout the year. They are active during the night and day, but the small brown mammals frequently rest to preserve their energy. They make nests under logs, amongst tree roots, in tree holes or underground. In the autumn, they sometimes store food for times of scarcity in the winter.

The bank vole is only 8-12cm long and 15-40g in weight. The adult has a red-brown coat, prominent ears, long tail, and a thick almost mouse-like build. The bank vole is a nimble creature that runs and climbs rapidly, and can swim well, often crossing wide stretches of water.