New Paradigms in the Study of "Microtus Ochrogaster" The prairie vole is a small vole found in central North America. The vole has long, coarse grayish-brown fur on the upper portion of the body and yellowish fur on the lower portion of the body. It has short ears and a short tail, which is somewhat darker on top. Taxonomy and distribution The prairie vole's scientific name, Microtus ochrogaster, is derived from Greek; the genus name translates to "small ear" and the specific epithet translates
The way an animal behaves is immensely influenced by its surrounding environment. The process by which an animal acquires its food in its habitat can be affected by several elements, both biotic and abiotic. When foraging, it is essential that animals consider food selection and availability, risks of predation, and competition with other animals for the same food source. Among the diversity of factors upon which foraging decisions are made is the risk of predation and habitat structure. According