VU

Persian Vole

Microtus irani

Unknown

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Microtus irani faces significant pressure from agricultural expansion and intensification across its limited range in Iran's mountainous regions. Overgrazing by livestock degrades the alpine and subalpine grasslands essential for this vole's survival, while climate change threatens to shift suitable habitat to higher elevations. The species' restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized habitat destruction and fragmentation.

Threat summary

Habitat

Microtus irani inhabits alpine and subalpine grasslands in Iran's Zagros Mountains, typically occurring at elevations between 2,000-3,500 meters. The species prefers dense grass meadows and rocky slopes with adequate vegetation cover for foraging and nesting.

Artificial - Terrestrial· major

Conservation measures underway

Site/area protectionSpecies recovery

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Persian Vole classified as Vulnerable?
Persian Vole is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Microtus irani faces significant pressure from agricultural expansion and intensification across its limited range in Iran's mountainous regions. Overgrazing by livestock degrades the alpine and subalpine grasslands essential for this vole's survival, while climate change threatens to shift suitable habitat to higher elevations. The species' restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized habitat destruction and fragmentation.
Where does Persian Vole live?
Persian Vole occurs in Iran. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Persian Vole?
The main threats to Persian Vole are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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