Microtus cabrerae (Rodentia: Cricetidae)

Abstract

Microtus cabrerae Thomas, 1906, or Cabrera’s vole, is a medium-sized arvicoline, and one of the largest Microtus species. M. cabrerae is an Iberoccitane endemic, which is currently restricted to the Iberian Peninsula, where it presents a highly fragmented distribution. The species is the sole extant representative of the anagenetic Iberomys lineage with origin in the early Pleistocene. M. cabrerae is primarily restricted to wet habitats dominated by tall grasses, sedges, and rushes. The species has experienced strong population declines mainly during the past 10 years, particularly due to agricultural intensification. M. cabrerae is currently classified by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources as ‘‘Near Threatened,’’ and is listed in the Habitats Directive and Bern Convention, thus requiring appropriate conservation measures.