Sonoma tree vole

The Sonoma tree vole (Arborimus pomo) is a species of small, mouselike rodent found in the humid coastal old-growth forests of northern California and Oregon. These voles are unique among their kind as they are arboreal, meaning they live and nest in the tops of trees such as Douglas fir, grand fir, and Sitka spruce. Their diet consists of the outer parts of conifer needles, particularly Douglas fir.1

Voles, in general, are classified in the subfamily Arvicolinae and are known for their blunt muzzles, short tails, and small eyes and ears. They inhabit a wide range of environments across the Northern Hemisphere. While most voles are terrestrial, the Sonoma tree vole and the red tree vole (Arborimus longicaudus) are notable exceptions due to their tree-dwelling habits.1