The Land - Weasal or Ermine

Weasel or Ermine (Mustela erminea)

Characteristics Changing from brown with a white belly in summer to all white in winter (except for the black tail tip), weasels have a small head and very long neck and body, with very short legs. Movement is by a series of jumps, with most of the strength and action taking place in the body rather than the legs. The weasel is known as the most ferocious and blood-thirsty creature for its size. It weighs three or four ounces. Habitat A wide variety of habitats are suitable, usually wooded, and not necessarily near water as with mink and otter. Often found around old wood camps. Feedings at any time of the day and often at night, this little animal will tackle prey several times its weight. It eats rats, mice, birds, frogs, rabbits and will take carrion. Although hunting largely on land or in small tunnels, it will when necessary climb bushes and even take to the water. It breeds in July and August, and bears four to six young in April or May of the following year. Any snug den serves as a nest.

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Souris Branch of the P.E.I. Wildlife Federation

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