It is common but uneven in the whole territory of Latvia. It is one of the biggest voles. It swims and dives well. It is more common near stagnant waters, but also inhabits forests, meadows and gardens. It moves to drier places during flood. It creates deep and wide underground labyrinths. In winter it also moves under the snow. Feeding on coastal and aquatic plants can be detrimental to agriculture, especially if settling near storage facilities. It creates large feed stocks in the autumn.