California Vole (Microtus californicus) is in the Hamsters, Voles, Lemmings, and Allies family (Cricetidae). Across the U.S., iNaturalist users have logged 2,012 research-grade observations of it in our sample, peaking in June.
Seasonal pattern in the national data: year-round resident. Counts also reflect when people are out photographing, so compare months within a state rather than across states.
When to photograph California Vole: observations by month (U.S.)
About California Vole
The California vole (Microtus californicus) is a type of vole which lives throughout much of California and part of southwestern Oregon. It is also known as the California meadow mouse. It averages 172 mm (6.8 in) in length although this length varies greatly between subspecies.From Wikipedia via iNaturalist — article, CC BY-SA.
California Vole by state
| State | Observations | Peak month | Main season |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 2,009 | June | May–Apr |
Main season = months with at least 30% of the state's peak-month count.
Related mammals (Hamsters, Voles, Lemmings, and Allies)
Muskrat
Hispid Cotton Rat
White-footed Mouse
Eastern Meadow Vole
Western Deer Mouse
Dusky-footed Woodrat
Bushy-tailed Woodrat
Photography tips
- Keep a legal and safe distance: 100 yards from bears and wolves and 25 yards from other large animals in national parks.
- Dawn and dusk are peak activity times for most mammals.
- Use your car as a blind on wildlife drives.
FAQ
When is the best time to photograph California Vole?
Nationally, June has the most observations, with the main season from May to April.
Where is California Vole most often seen?
The most observations come from California.