ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Least Weasel

 Least Weasel


Least weasel

The least weasel is the smallest member of the weasel family and the smallest living carnivore.

Least weasel tracks

Least Weasel Track
(Click track to enlarge)

 



Least Weasel
Mustela nivalis

At-a-Glance

• Typical Foods: mice and other rodents
Description
Like other weasels, the least weasel has a brown coat in the summer and white coat in the winter. A distinguishing characteristic is that it does not have a black tip on the end of its short tail.

Habitat and Habits
This weasel inhabits open areas such as meadows, marshes, brushy areas and agricultural fields.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
Most breeding occurs in the spring and late summer, although they may reproduce any month of the year, with more than one litter per year. Litters usually have four to five young.