MAMMALS

Mink, Mustela vison or Neovison vison

Family Mustelidae (Mustelids)

Size/Weight: approx. 20" long with tail; approx. 2½ lbs.

Range: Most of the United States except for western and southwestern states

Habitat: Areas near streams and lakes

The mink is an elongate, short-legged mustelid with a long tail, webbed feet, and a semi-aquatic lifestyle. Its luxurious pelt is dark, blackish-brown, sometimes has a whitish area around the mouth, and may have pale spotting on the underside. Minks are mostly nocturnal and solitary, are excellent swimmers, and never stray too far from a water source. They are carnivores, eating aquatic animals and invertebrates, but will also take birds, eggs, and rabbits.

Track size (front): 1½" wide x 1¾" long

Track size (rear): 1½" wide x 1½" long

Description of Track: There are five toes on each foot, although the smaller inner toes do not always register. The toes, especially on the front foot, often splay apart, and webbing between the toes may be evident in the track. The medium-length claws may or may not register. The metacarpal pads are fused in a loose arc shape, with an additional proximal pad in the front foot.