What specific water source characteristics are North American water voles in Montana associated with?
Answer
High-elevation, cold, and clear water sources
While the general needs for permanent water and dense riparian grasses apply broadly, localized geography refines the niche occupied by certain populations. In specific regions like Montana, the North American water vole demonstrates a specialization linked to their high-altitude environment. They are particularly found near water sources that are characterized by being high in elevation, inherently cold, and notably clear. This localized dependency suggests that factors like water temperature and clarity, correlated with altitude, play a significant role in refining habitat suitability beyond just the presence of water and vegetation.
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