The hunt is on in Perthshire for one of Scotland’s rarest mammals.
Water vole numbers across Scotland have plummeted by 90% since the 1990s. Now the Tay Landscape Partnership is appealing for help in establishing whether the tiny rodents still exist in the local area.
It is hopeful a survey could help with the re-establishment of the semi-aquatic creatures.
The group is asking residents in the Carse of Gowrie, Sidlaw Hills, Perth and lower Strathearn, between Forteviot and Abernethy, to report any recent sightings.
The partnership will then use the information to improve the management of habitats in towns, villages and countryside around the Tay estuary.
Catriona Davies, the access and biodiversity officer for the partnership, said: “There used to be lots of water voles in our area but their numbers have declined so dramatically some people don’t think there are any left here at all.
“However, there have always been tantalising reports of remnant populations hidden away in quiet corners of our waterways.
“This survey is a fantastic opportunity to test these rumours and find out if these endearing wee animals could make a comeback.” Water voles are approximately 4-8in long, with their tail adding an extra 3-4in. They are a mid-brown colour with a rounded body.
Not to be mistaken for the brown rat, the water vole has a blunt nose and its tail is relatively short and is also quite hairy.
They can be tricky to spot but make a distinctive “plop” sound as they dart under the water when someone approaches. They also make small, neat holes along river banks, where they create long tunnels.
The grass around the entrances to these tunnels is often nibbled short.
To report sightings, call Catriona Davies on 01738 75379 or email her at catriona.davies@pkht.org.uk.