Campagnol is a French word that refers to a type of vole, a small mammal that resembles a mouse. The word is pronounced as "kam.pa.ɲɔl" in IPA phonetic transcription, with stress on the second syllable. The spelling of the word reflects French pronunciation rules, with the "gn" combination producing a nasalized sound. The word is commonly used in scientific and ecological contexts to describe the behavior and habitat of this rodent in France and other European countries.
Campagnol is a noun that refers to a small rodent belonging to the genus Microtus and family Cricetidae. The term is commonly used to describe several species of voles or field mice found primarily in Europe and Asia. These animals are known for their stocky build, rounded ears, and short tails.
Campagnols typically inhabit grassy fields, meadows, marshlands, and other areas with dense vegetation. They have a varied diet, feeding on grasses, herbs, roots, and sometimes tree bark. Their burrows are usually shallow and complex, consisting of multiple chambers and interconnected tunnels. Campagnols are highly adaptable animals, able to reproduce rapidly and survive in various habitats.
Although often seen as pests due to their extensive burrowing and feeding habits, campagnols also play an important ecological role. They contribute to soil aeration and nutrient cycling, and their burrowing activities can help maintain stable soil structure.
Campagnol populations can experience marked fluctuations, with periodic outbreaks known as "vole plagues," during which their numbers proliferate rapidly. These outbreaks can have significant implications for agricultural productivity and ecosystem dynamics, as campagnols can cause damage to crops, gardens, and ornamental plants. As a result, efforts are often made to control their populations when they reach levels of economic or environmental concern.
The word "Campagnol" is derived from the Italian term "campagnolo", which means "field mouse". The Italian word, in turn, comes from the Latin term "campāneus", meaning "of the field". The word "Campagnol" is widely used in various Romance languages, including French, Spanish, and Portuguese, to refer to small rodents commonly found in fields and meadows.