Field vole  (Microtus agrestis)

Overgrazing, reductions in the amount of rough grassland, development, scrub growth and removal of linear features such as hedgerows, all impact negatively on this vole. Furthermore, poisoning by rodenticides is also a threat (4).

The precise status of the field vole is not clear at present. Although a common species, it may well have declined, and its importance as a food source for predatory birds makes it more pertinent that its status should be assessed (4). Conservation measures and the maintenance of biodiversity are important, even though this vole is common. The creation of grassy field margins and set-aside areas encourages this species (2), and has the added bonus that birds of prey also benefit (5).