water vole

The 'water vole' is a small, semi-aquatic rodent known for its burrowing habits near water bodies and is often mistaken for a rat.

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Definition

B2Wildlife

(common)A small, furry rodent that lives near water and can swim, often found in holes along riverbanks.

Example

  • The water vole made its home in the riverbank, creating a network of tunnels.
  • We spotted a water vole swimming across the stream.

C1Zoology

(technical)A semi-aquatic rodent of the genus Arvicola, characterized by a stout body, short tail, and dense fur.

Example

  • The European water vole, Arvicola amphibius, is an important species in wetland ecosystems.
  • Researchers studied the habitat preferences of the water vole in different river systems.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "water vole":

water shrewmeadow volewater molewater ratwater mousewood mouseriver otterfield mousehog mousewater addermole shrewwater snailwater ouzelfish-eating rat