water vole
Definition
- Noun:
- A semiaquatic rodent of North America: A small, stout-bodied rodent (Microtus richardsoni) found near streams and wetlands in western North America. It has a dense, waterproof coat and is a strong swimmer.
- A large aquatic vole of Eurasia: A large, robust rodent (Arvicola amphibius) found in riverbanks, lakes, and marshes across Europe and parts of Asia. It is often seen swimming and is sometimes called the "water rat."
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- We spotted a water vole swimming across the pond, its small ears just visible above the surface.
- Conservation efforts are underway to protect the habitat of the endangered European water vole.
- The North American water vole is an important part of the alpine ecosystem.
Advanced Usage
- The term "water vole" is used in ecological and conservation contexts to discuss species populations, habitat requirements, and biodiversity.
- The reintroduction of the water vole to this wetland has been a key indicator of the habitat's recovery.
Variants and Related Words
- Vole (n): The general term for small rodents of the family Cricetidae, to which water voles belong.
- Arvicola amphibius (n): The scientific name for the Eurasian water vole.
- Microtus richardsoni (n): The scientific name for the North American water vole.
Synonyms
- Water rat (n): A common, though less precise, name for the Eurasian water vole.
- Field mouse (n): A general term sometimes confused with voles, though they are different species.
Related Phrases
- "As busy as a water vole": An informal simile suggesting constant, industrious activity, inspired by the animal's behavior.
- She's been as busy as a water vole, gathering materials for her project all week.
Noun
-
of western North America
-
common large Eurasian vole
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