Water vole (Arvicola amphibius) at Lunt Meadows, Merseyside.

Not the first photo of this individual I have uploaded but I just can’t decide on my favourite… Just too cute!

This group of water voles were the first I had seen in several years and they were living in a very convenient location which meant I could spend long hours sitting watching without having to invade their habitat in any way. One brave individual was almost always visible and rarely even noticed when I approached my viewing position. After sitting quietly there would then emerge two juveniles and a female. Once they were around I knew to stay still and quiet if I wanted them to stay around.

Watching this group taught me a lot about the species. Always busy, they somehow manage to slide through the water while barely creating a wake. The whole time they were on the bank they were hoovering up long, grass stems like I slurp up spaghetti. I even managed to document some breeding events which, despite being calm, relaxed and gentle to begin with, the noise as splashing as they finished didn’t seem like a happy ending…

The last time I was able get down to Lunt Meadows I was more focused on searching for signs of other mammal species to watch and photograph so didn’t spend long looking for my voles. I checked in a few times but didn’t catch a glimpse. It’s likely they has dispersed into the flood meadows and wet grassland but with stoats, owls, harriers and other raptor species that thrive at the site, and would certainly see a water vole as hearty breakfast, I do sometimes worry for them. Hope to see you again next year Ratty!

For details on Lunt Meadows, or to support wildlife in the area, visit Lancashire Wildlife Trust’s website.

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