European mink
Statut U.I.C.N
Union Internationale pour la Conservation de la Nature
- lc Préoccupation mineure
- nt Quasi menacé
- vu Vulnérable
- en En danger
- cr En danger critique
- ew Éteint dans la nature
- ex Éteint
Carte d'identité
- Classe :
- Mammals
- Ordre :
- Carnivora
- Famille :
- Mustelidae
- Genre :
- Mustela
- Espèce :
- lutreola
- Taille moyenne
- 31 to 38 cm
- Poids
- 440 to 739 g
- Gestation
- About 54 days
Up to 4 kits per litter - Habitat
- Along rivers, streams, ponds and freshwater wetlands
- Régime
- Carnivore
The discreet guardian of our rivers
The European mink is now one of the most endangered mammals in Europe. Its presence is often seen as an indicator of healthy wetlands.
Threats and conservation
The European mink is threatened by habitat destruction, invasive alien species, pollution and declining prey. To protect it, waterways are being restored and natural riverbanks maintained, and the American mink is being controlled to reduce competition and hybridisation. Existing populations are monitored regularly, and local communities are informed to help protect the species.
Fun fact
The European mink is an excellent swimmer, able to dive underwater to catch fish, frogs and crayfish!
