> What is a microtene? I saw mention of this on tweeters and

Microtines are voles (genus Microtus) and similar rodents (such as
lemmings). Voles (aka "meadow mice") are usually mouse-sized. Most have
small eyes and ears. They eat mostly green vegetation. Many species have
dramatic population swings.

Voles are the bread and butter of many predators -- foxes, coyotes, many
hawks, many owls, etc. Voles tend to have short lives and lots of baby
voles (if they live long enough). "Breed fast, die young" is the vole
motto.

Dr. Kelly Cassidy
Curator, Conner Vertebrate Museum
Washington State University, Pullman, WA