Wildlife

Water Vole Recovery: Conservation and Welfare

Water voles are the UK's most rapidly declining mammal, facing ongoing threats from American mink predation and habitat degradation.

Key Facts

Water vole populations have declined by 90% since the 1970s
American mink, an introduced species, is their most significant predator
Water voles use dense bankside vegetation for cover and food
Habitat management and mink trapping have helped populations recover in some areas

Welfare Considerations

Predation by mink causes acute fear and sudden death for voles. Habitat loss leads to starvation and exposure. Welfare-conscious conservation involves restoring habitat alongside humane mink management.

What You Can Do

Support water vole reintroduction schemes with habitat creation
Advocate for humane mink control methods as part of conservation plans
Plant dense bankside vegetation to restore vole habitat in your area