Pyrenean Pine Vole

Gerbe's vole or the Pyrenean pine vole (Microtus pyrenaicus) is a species of rodent in the family Cricetidae found in France, Andorra, and Spain. == Taxonomy == Microtus pyrenaicus, commonly known as the Pyrenean pine vole, is a small rodent species belonging to the subfamily Arvicolinae. It was previously placed in the genus Pitymys, now considered a subgenus within Microtus. Due to its close resemblance, particularly externally, M. pyrenaicus can be challenging to distinguish from other Iberian voles such as Microtus duodecimcostatus and Microtus lusitanicus. Some authors classify these species within the subgenus Terricola. == Description == The Pyrenean pine vole is a small arvicoline rodent, characterized by an elongated body and relatively short limbs and tail. It has a short, blunt snout, small eyes, and ears almost hidden in its dense fur, adaptations suited to its underground lifestyle. Adult body length ranges between 94.0 and 104.5 mm, tail length between 27.5 and 34.0 mm, and weight from 18.0 to 24.0 grams. Its fur is brownish, more reddish dorsally and greyer on the belly, with a distinctly bicoloured tail (dark above, pale below). The skull is small and delicate, lacking distinguishing systematic characteristics. Teeth are hypsodont with continuous growth, and…