Water voles are Britain’s fastest-declining mammal. Once widespread across the country’s rivers, streams and wetlands, they have declined due to habitat loss, pollution, agricultural pressures and predation by non-native American mink. National estimates now stand at between 58,000 and 186,000 individuals, making every stronghold for the species increasingly important. 

The survey, carried out by Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust with the River Meon Conservation Volunteers, recorded extensive evidence of water vole activity including feeding stations and remains, burrow entrances and latrines. 

Watch the video below for more information or click the button for more information about the survey.