Size: Voles are generally smaller in size compared to other rodents. This difference is reflected in their skeletal structures, with vole bones being proportionally smaller.
Tail: Voles have relatively shorter tails compared to many other rodents. This is reflected in the number of caudal vertebrae (tail bones). Voles typically have 20-30 caudal vertebrae, while other rodents may have more.
Dental Formula: The dental formula of voles is distinct. They have 1 incisor, 0 canines, 3 premolars, and 3 molars on each side of the upper and lower jaws, totaling 16 teeth. This differs from the dental formula of some other rodents, which may have different numbers of incisors, canines, or molars.
Skull Structure: The skulls of voles have certain unique features. For instance, they possess relatively large interorbital foramina (openings in the skull between the eyes) and their zygomatic arches (cheekbones) are typically narrower compared to other rodents.
Limb Proportions: Voles have shorter forelimbs compared to their hindlimbs. This adaptation helps them move efficiently through their underground burrows and tunnels, which are characteristic of their burrowing lifestyle.
It's important to note that these are general differences, and there can be variations among different vole species. Additionally, the specific skeletal differences between rodents and voles can be more nuanced and may require a detailed comparison of their anatomical features.