American Mink

The American Mink is common in North America, and it can be found in Alaska, Canada and most of the USA. American Mink are members of the Mustelidae family, along with the weasel, marten, otter, etc. There are two most famous Mink subspecies: the American Mink (Mustela vison) and the European Mink (Mustela lutreola). The European Mink can be found in the countries of the Scandinavian Peninsula – Norway, Sweden, Finland, as well as Poland, the Baltic region and Russia. The American Mink has been introduced in Europe, so it does occur in European habitats.

American Mink bear a certain resemblance to the English polecat. The body is covered in lustrous chocolate-brown coat featuring profuse undercoat. The coat is glossy on the upper parts. Body length averages 15-18 inches, and the densely coated tail measures about 9 inches. Males are larger than females. Males weigh around 3.5 lbs, while females average 2 lbs. Northern Mink have softer pelage, while those inhabiting southern regions have harsher coat. The American Mink has small and rounded ears that are barely visible in the fur. There is a white patch on the chin. In European Mink, the white also extends to the upper lip. Mink have short legs with webbed toes, which make them superb swimmers.

The American Mink are concentrated in forested areas, as well as in areas overgrown with shrubs. Although they are ground hunters, they prefer to stay in the vicinity of water, because they are second to none in hunting in the water. They take fish and waterfowl, as well as other small birds, eggs, rodents and rabbits. American Mink are known to make several kills in one go. They are highly territorial, and an individual’s home range can stretch out for 3-5 km along a river bank or a stream. A Mink can build several dens within its range. They pick out little hollows, cavities, stick-and-leaf pilings etc, as dens.

Mink mate at the beginning of spring (February/March), and young are born in April/May. Litters usually contain 3-6 young, and it takes 8 weeks for a kit to get on its feet. The young stay with the mother until late summer, and then they establish their own domains. The American Mink is hunted for its fine quality fur, and it can also be bred in captivity.