mink

Mink are small, semiaquatic carnivores in the family Mustelidae. The term typically refers to two living species: the American mink (Neovison vison) and the European mink (Mustela lutra). The American mink is native to North America and has been introduced in other regions for fur farming, while the European mink is native to Europe and western Asia and is more threatened.

Physically, mink have elongated bodies, short legs, and dense fur that is usually brown with a lighter underfur. They are adept swimmers, with webbed hind feet, and they occupy wetlands, rivers, lakes, marshes, and coastal areas near water. They are largely solitary, maintaining territories, except during mating and when a mother cares for her kits.

Mink are opportunistic predators, feeding on fish, amphibians, crustaceans, small mammals, birds, and eggs. They den in burrows, hollow logs, or other sheltered sites near water. Breeding occurs in late winter; many populations exhibit delayed implantation. Litters typically range from four to eight kits; the young are born blind and helpless, are weaned at about 6–8 weeks, and reach independence by 2–3 months. Lifespan in the wild is generally 3–6 years, shorter in some regions due to predation and disease.

Conservation and human use: Mink fur has long been valued in the fur trade, leading to widespread farming. Escaped farm animals and released pets can form feral populations and affect native wildlife. The European mink has declined due to habitat loss, pollution, and competition (and hybridization) with the American mink, while the American mink remains widespread and is not globally threatened.