Weasels weathering winter

Nicole McClelland, Interpretive Naturalist

When it comes to weathering the cold of winter, weasels have perfected their snowy survival strategies. Weasels are the smallest carnivorous mammals in the world and belong to the Mustelidae family which also includes mink, river otters and badgers. They are characterized by their long, slender bodies and short legs which keep them low to the ground and help them move quite quickly. Ohio is home to three types of weasel: the least weasel, long-tailed weasel and short-tailed weasel (or ermine). Each species can develop a white coat in the winter.

Why turn white in winter?

As winter approaches, the sun sets earlier. This change triggers an alteration in coat color for weasels. Weasels in the north turn white in winter for camouflage to blend in with their environment. Weasels in the south do not molt to a white coat color, but instead maintain the same brown hue all year long. Cold weather camouflage helps weasels evade predators such as hawks and coyotes. It also aids in their ability to hunt for prey like mice and voles.

For more great stories like this, check out Green Islands Magazine, a bi-monthly publication from Summit Metro Parks.