Signs of a thriving water vole population are emerging along the Hogsmill River in Surrey, with conservationists pointing to increased burrow activity and the unique territorial marking of "squashed poo" as evidence of the rodents' successful reestablishment.
Conservationist Trevelyn-Ashby noted a growing number of burrows discovered in the mud banks along the river. "We're finding more and more burrows every time we come," Ashby said.
Accompanying the discovery of new burrows is the identification of "squashed poo" at the entrance of these active burrows. Ashby explained that this distinctive sign is created by water voles "mushing" their droppings. This behavior is a territorial marker, as the rodents have scent glands on their feet that they use to trample their droppings, thereby marking their territory.
The presence of these indicators suggests a positive trend for the water vole population in the area, which has faced significant decline in previous decades due to habitat loss and predation, particularly by introduced American mink. Water voles, often called 'Vole ', are the UK's fastest-declining wild mammal. Historically, their populations have been decimated, with estimates suggesting a decline of over 87% since the 1990s.
Conservation efforts often focus on habitat restoration and controlling invasive species like the American mink, which poses a significant threat to water voles. The resurgence observed on the Hogsmill River is a hopeful sign for the species' broader conservation.
