What is the estimated daily consumption quantity required by a water vole?
Answer
Up to 80% of their own body weight, equating to about 200 grams
The water vole exhibits an extraordinary requirement for continuous caloric intake to sustain itself, which is quantified by a staggering daily consumption rate. It is estimated that these rodents must ingest vegetation equivalent to as much as 80% of their total body mass each day just to maintain their required energy levels. For an average adult, this translates into a necessity of consuming roughly 200 grams of plant matter daily. This high volume requirement is directly related to the relatively low nutritional density found in their primary food sources, such as grasses and reeds, forcing them into nearly constant foraging activity when food is accessible.
Related Questions
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