The Long-tailed Weasel (Mustela frenata) is the most widely distributed mustelid in the New World. Its range extends from southern Canada through most of the United States to Mexico, Central America and the northern parts of South America. It is generally found in open or semi-open habitats near water.This is a typical weasel with a long slender body, short legs and a bushy tail that is almost as long as the rest of the animal.
Ten Facts about Long-tailed Weasel
- Adult males measure from 33 to 45 cm (14 to 18 in), including their tails, and may weigh up to 500g (1 lb); females are typically about 15% smaller.
- They are gingerish-brown in colour, with yellowish-white belly fur, but in the northern parts of their range they moult to pure white in winter. The tip of the tail is black in all seasons.
- Long-tailed Weasels mainly eat rodents, their slender bodies enabling them to pursue their prey into their burrows.
- They are most active at night but are sometimes seen during the day.
- Their young are born helpless, but by 56 days are able to catch prey independently. They are able to climb trees and are also good swimmers.
- Summer is the mating time for the long tailed weasel. The male reaches maturity in about 1 year, while the female matures in 3 to 4 months.
- The female gives birth to about 4 to 8 young ones in spring. The young ones are born blind, as their eyes remain covered with fur. The eyes open in approximately 36 days.
- When frightened or alarmed, the animal can release musk that smells quite strong. The musk is actually secreted by the anal glands of the animal, when it is alarmed or excited.
- Long tailed weasel life span can be quite short, and may not exceed one year. However, many of them can live up to 6 years as well.
- Long tailed weasel has been observed to follow a peculiar zigzag pattern while hunting.
