Water voles are one of the UK's most rapidly declining mammals, having lost over 90% of their population since the 1970s. Conservation efforts are showing results.
Water voles killed by mink experience acute predation stress. Isolated populations experience higher predation pressure and inbreeding. Reintroduced animals face adaptation challenges. Effective mink control, which itself raises welfare questions, is currently essential for water vole survival. Humane trapping and prompt dispatch minimise suffering in both species.