Salt Marsh Vole
The salt marsh vole (Microtus pennsylvanicus dukecampbelli) is a medium-sized rodent (total length: 7.3 in. = 185 mm) with a short tail (approximately 2 in. = 50 mm). The coloration of the fur is dark brown dorsally and gray ventrally. The snout is short and broad and the ears are small and occasionally obscured by the fur.
Little is known of the true habitat of this species of vole. The only known habitat in Florida is on private property in Levy County in the vicinity of Cedar Key. The information gathered from the population near Cedar Key concludes that this species utilizes saltgrass (Distichlis spicata) meadows adjacent to black needlerush (Juncus roemerianus) and may avoid areas with smooth cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora). The salt marsh vole is active year round and attempts to locate the salt marsh vole in similar habitat at other nearby locations have been unsuccessful.
The salt marsh vole is listed federally and by the state of Florida as endangered.
