Pohjamaus

Pohjamaus is a Finnish term that translates to "northern mouse" and typically refers to the bank vole, scientifically known as Myodes glareolus. This small rodent is native to Europe and parts of Asia, with its range extending into the northern boreal forests of Finland. The bank vole is a key species in its ecosystem, serving as a food source for various predators, including owls, foxes, and weasels.

These voles are characterized by their reddish-brown fur on their back and greyish-white fur on their belly. They have relatively small ears and a moderately long tail. Pohjamaus inhabit a variety of environments, including deciduous and coniferous forests, meadows, and hedgerows, often preferring areas with dense undergrowth for cover. They are primarily herbivorous, feeding on seeds, berries, roots, and bark, but may also consume insects occasionally.

Bank voles are known for their prolific breeding habits, with females able to produce multiple litters per year. Their populations can fluctuate significantly, often exhibiting cyclical patterns influenced by factors such as food availability and predator pressure. In Finland, Pohjamaus plays an important role in the natural environment, contributing to seed dispersal and nutrient cycling within the forest floor. Their presence is an indicator of a healthy forest ecosystem.