maasälvyille

Metsäälvyille, also known as forest lemmings, are small rodents found in boreal and temperate forests across Northern Europe and Asia. They are characterized by their short tails, stocky bodies, and typically brown or gray fur. These animals are primarily herbivorous, feeding on grasses, herbs, bark, and roots, with their diet varying seasonally.

Forest lemmings are known for their cyclical population fluctuations, a phenomenon observed in many lemming species. These cycles can impact forest ecosystems by influencing vegetation growth and serving as a food source for predators like foxes, owls, and weasels. Breeding occurs throughout the warmer months, and females can have multiple litters per year.

Their habitat preference is for areas with dense ground cover, such as mosses and low-lying vegetation, which provides them with both food and shelter from predators. They are generally solitary animals, except during the breeding season. While not typically considered pests, their population booms can sometimes lead to localized damage to young trees through bark stripping. Conservation status for most forest lemming populations is considered stable, but specific regional variations can exist.