MEADOW MOUSE Meaning and
Definition
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A meadow mouse, scientifically known as Microtus pennsylvanicus, is a small rodent species belonging to the Cricetidae family. Commonly found in grassy habitats like meadows, fields, and pastures, the meadow mouse possesses certain distinctive features. They typically measure around 4 to 6 inches in length, with a tail adding an additional 1.5 to 2.75 inches. Meadow mice have a compact and robust body structure, covered in soft and dense fur that can vary in color from reddish-brown to grayish-brown.
These creatures are herbivorous rodents that feed on a variety of plant materials such as grasses, seeds, roots, and green vegetation. They are known for their tunneling behavior, constructing an extensive network of burrows beneath the ground, which serves as their shelter and protection against predators. Meadow mice are adept swimmers and climbers, making use of their well-developed sense of hearing to detect possible threats.
Given their important ecological role, meadow mice are considered prey for numerous predators including snakes, hawks, owls, and foxes. Additionally, they play a significant role as seed and plant dispersers, contributing to the flourishing of meadow ecosystems. Due to their abundance and impact on the environment, they sometimes become agricultural pests, causing crop damage and leading to economic implications.
The term "meadow mouse" can also be used in a broader sense to refer to any small rodent inhabiting grassy or meadow-like areas, regardless of the actual species.
Common Misspellings for MEADOW MOUSE
- neadow mouse
- keadow mouse
- jeadow mouse
- mwadow mouse
- msadow mouse
- mdadow mouse
- mradow mouse
- m4adow mouse
- m3adow mouse
- mezdow mouse
- mesdow mouse
- mewdow mouse
- meqdow mouse
- measow mouse
- meaxow mouse
- meacow mouse
- meafow mouse
- mearow mouse
Etymology of MEADOW MOUSE
The word "meadow mouse" is a common name used to refer to certain small rodents from the family Cricetidae, specifically voles or field mice. The etymology of this term can be broken down as follows:
1. Meadow: The word "meadow" comes from the Middle English word "medwe", which originated from the Old English word "meadwe" or "mædwe". This word refers to a piece of grassland, especially one used for grazing or hay production.
2. Mouse: The term "mouse" comes from the Middle English word "mous", which is derived from the Old English word "mus". This word refers to a small rodent that belongs to the Muridae family.
Therefore, the term "meadow mouse" essentially describes a small mouse-like animal found in meadows or grasslands.
Similar spelling word for MEADOW MOUSE
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