Arvicola Terrestris

Another from the Christmas epz meet at the BWC.
Hand-held and not completely sharp but I was just thrilled to see one of these for more than a few seconds - the first time in three years that I've actually managed a shot of one

Water voles occur mainly along well vegetated banks of slow flowing rivers, ditches, dykes and lakes. They are sometimes confused with brown rats which often also live near water courses. Indeed, it is sometimes called "the water rat", which is the origin of the water voles' fame as "Ratty" from Kenneth Grahame's book The Wind in the Willows.

Water voles excavate extensive burrow systems into the banks of waterways. These have sleeping/nest chambers at various levels in the steepest parts of the bank and usually have underwater entrances to give the animals a secure route for escape if danger threatens. "Lawns" of closely cropped grass, occasionally with piles of chopped food, may surround burrow entrances. Water voles tend to be active more during the day than at night. Male voles live along about 130 metres of water bank, while females have ranges about 70 metres long.

Thanks for your time and as always, your thoughts/comments are very welcome!
Regards - Sarah J x

Title:	Arvicola Terrestris
Username:	Sezz
Uploaded:	3 Jan 2012 - 4:20 PM
Camera:	Nikon D300 Check out Nikon Nation!
Lens:	sigma 70-300mm APO DG MACRO
Recording media:	RAW (digital)
Group Event:	The 8th Annual BWC Meeting