How Do You Spell GREY LEMMING?

1. Grey lemming is a noun that refers to a small mammal belonging to the rodent family, specifically the lemming subfamily (Lemmini), and characterized by its grey-colored fur. They are commonly found in the tundra and northern regions of North America, Europe, and Asia.

   The grey lemming, also known as the Arctic lemming or Lemmus sibiricus, typically measures about 12 to 15 cm (4.7 to 5.9 inches) in length and weighs around 40 to 60 grams (1.4 to 2.1 ounces). Its fur coloration can vary between individuals but is generally a mixture of shades of grey, brown, and black, camouflaging it within its surroundings.

   Grey lemmings are herbivorous animals that primarily feed on grasses, sedges, and mosses. They possess sharp, chisel-like incisor teeth finely adapted for gnawing through vegetation. These small rodents are known for their high reproductive rates, with females often having multiple litters throughout the breeding season. They construct intricate burrows within the tundra landscape, which provide shelter from predators and harsh weather conditions.

   The grey lemming plays a crucial role in the Arctic ecosystem as a prey species for various predators, including owls, foxes, and stoats. Additionally, their feeding behavior and burrowing activities contribute to the shaping of the tundra landscape. Despite their ecological significance, grey lemmings are known for their cyclic population fluctuations, with periods of explosive growth and subsequent declines, which impact predator populations and other aspects of the Arctic food web.

Common Misspellings for GREY LEMMING

The term "grey lemming" does not have a specific etymology, as it is a combination of two words: "grey" and "lemming". However, we can explore the origins of these in order to understand their meaning.

1. Grey: The word "grey" comes from the Old English word "grǣg" or "grēg", which means "the color of ash". It is often used to describe a neutral color between black and white. The spelling with an "e" rather than an "a" is more commonly used in British English.

2. Lemming: The word "lemming" comes from the Norwegian dialect word "leming" or "lemin". It refers to a small rodent species found in Arctic and subarctic regions. The word was originally borrowed into English in the 17th century to describe these particular rodents.