meadow vole
Noun: 1. A small rodent: The meadow vole is a small, stocky rodent with a short tail, belonging to the genus Microtus. It is a common mammal species. 2. A widely distributed grassland species: This animal is noted for its extensive presence across specific geographic regions, particularly in open, grassy habitats.
The term "meadow vole" is used as a countable noun to refer to the animal itself, either as an individual or the species. It is a standard term in zoology, ecology, and general wildlife description. - The meadow vole is an important prey species for many predators. - Researchers are studying the population cycles of the meadow vole. - I saw a meadow vole run across the path.
- As a subject of ecological study: The species is often cited in research on population dynamics and herbivore-plant interactions.
- The impact of the meadow vole on grassland vegetation is significant.
- Meadow mouse: (noun) A common alternative name for the meadow vole.
- Microtus pennsylvanicus: (noun) The scientific binomial name for the meadow vole.
- Field mouse: (noun) A general term for small rodents in fields, which can sometimes refer to voles, though not precisely synonymous.
- Vole: (noun) The general common name for rodents in the subfamily Arvicolinae, which includes the meadow vole.
The term "meadow vole" has a single, specific zoological meaning and does not have other common definitions or idiomatic uses. It refers exclusively to the rodent species Microtus pennsylvanicus.
- widely distributed in grasslands of northern United States and Canada