In taxonomic terms, voles are best described as which?

In taxonomic terms, voles are best described as which?

• A. Rodents
• B. Birds
• C. Reptiles
• D. Amphibians

Answer: (A)

Voles are mammals in the order Rodentia, the group defined by a pair of long incisors in the upper and lower jaws that grow continuously and are used for gnawing. That dental pattern is the hallmark of rodents and how they’re distinguished from other vertebrate groups. Birds have beaks and feathers, reptiles have scales and different skulls, and amphibians have moist skin and distinct life cycles. So the most accurate description is that voles are rodents.

Voles are mammals in the order Rodentia, the group defined by a pair of long incisors in the upper and lower jaws that grow continuously and are used for gnawing. That dental pattern is the hallmark of rodents and how they’re distinguished from other vertebrate groups. Birds have beaks and feathers, reptiles have scales and different skulls, and amphibians have moist skin and distinct life cycles. So the most accurate description is that voles are rodents.