Two of the most interesting and varied small mammals in North America are the Southern red backed vole and the Hopi chipmunk. These two species each have their own unique adaptations that allow them to survive and thrive in different habitats. In this article, we will take a look at the differences between these two small mammals and how they each have adapted in order to survive.
Southern Red Backed Vole
The Southern red backed vole, also known as the red-backed vole, is a species of small rodent found in the southeastern United States. It is a small mammal, usually measuring 4-7 inches in length. Their fur is usually brown or reddish-brown in color, and they have a short, stocky body and long tails. Southern red backed voles are omnivores, meaning they eat both plant and animal matter. They typically feed on small insects, seeds, and other plant matter.
Southern red backed voles are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats including forests, grasslands, and even urban areas. They are also active during both day and night, making them well-suited for the varied habitats they inhabit. Southern red backed voles are also excellent climbers and can often be found foraging for food in trees and shrubs.
Hopi Chipmunk
The Hopi chipmunk is a species of small rodent found in the southwestern United States. This species is slightly larger than the Southern red backed vole, usually measuring 5-9 inches in length. Their fur is usually grayish-brown in color, and they have a long, slender body and short tails. Hopi chipmunks are omnivores, meaning they eat both plant and animal matter. They typically feed on small insects, seeds, and other plant matter.
Hopi chipmunks are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats including deserts, grasslands, and even urban areas. They are most active during the day, making them well-suited for the habitats they inhabit. Hopi chipmunks are excellent climbers and can often be found foraging for food in trees and shrubs.
Differences Between These Two Species
The most obvious difference between these two species is their size. The Southern red backed vole is smaller than the Hopi chipmunk. Additionally, the Southern red backed vole has a short, stocky body and long tail, while the Hopi chipmunk has a long, slender body and short tail.
The Southern red backed vole is active during both day and night, while the Hopi chipmunk is most active during the day. The Southern red backed vole is also more adaptable and can be found in a wider variety of habitats, while the Hopi chipmunk is usually found in desert habitats. Finally, the Southern red backed vole is a better climber than the Hopi chipmunk.
Conclusion
The Southern red backed vole and the Hopi chipmunk are two of the most interesting and varied small mammals in North America. They each have their own unique adaptations that allow them to survive and thrive in different habitats. While they share many similarities in terms of diet and behavior, there are also some key differences between these two species. The Southern red backed vole is smaller than the Hopi chipmunk, is active during both day and night, and is a better climber than the Hopi chipmunk.
