What facial feature distinguishes the water vole from a brown rat?
Answer
Blunt, rounded muzzle
The physical distinction between the water vole and the common brown rat relies on specific cranial features. The water vole is clearly characterized by having a decidedly blunt and rounded muzzle. Conversely, the brown rat possesses a nose that is distinctly more pointed. This contrast in muzzle shape is a primary method for distinguishing between the two similar-looking species when observing them in the wild.
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