Least Weasel

Mustela nivalis

The smallest living carnivore, the Least Weasel moves over its home range in search of prey, investigating every hole or crack and frequently standing on its hindfeet to scan for predators or prey. It feeds almost entirely on meadow voles, chasing them along their runways, and is small enough to chase mice inside their burrows. Pouncing on its prey, the weasel wraps its legs around the victim and kills it with a swift bite at the base of the skull. It may hiss when threatened.

Look For : A very small brownish weasel with white neck, belly, and feet and a short tail. Turns all white in winter in northern regions.

Length : Body 6-7" long.

Habitat : Fields, brushy areas, and wetlands.

Range : Alaska, most of Canada, and south to parts of Midwest and Southeast.