A semi-aquatic mustelid with rich brown waterproof fur. Excellent swimmers and skilled hunters of small mammals, fish, and waterfowl. They're the wild cousin of the farmed mink whose fur drove decades of fashion.

Also called: American Mink, Common Mink

Native status: Native; widespread

§ Quick facts

SizeBody 30–45 cm (12–18 in); tail 20–30 cm
Weight600–1,200 g (1.3–2.6 lb)
LifespanWild 3 years; captive 10
OrderCarnivora
FamilyMustelidae

§ Encyclopedia

The American mink is a semiaquatic species of mustelid native to North America, though human introduction has expanded its range to many parts of Europe, Asia, and South America. Because of range expansion, the American mink is classed as a least-concern species by the IUCN. The American mink was formerly thought to be the only extant member of the genus Neovison following the extinction of the sea mink (N. macrodon), but recent studies, followed by taxonomic authorities, have reclassified it and the sea mink within the genus Neogale, which also contains a few New World weasel species. The American mink is a carnivore that feeds on rodents, fish, crustaceans, frogs, and birds. In its introduced range in Europe it has been classified as an invasive species linked to declines in European mink, Pyrenean desman, and water vole populations. It is the animal most frequently farmed for its fur, exceeding the silver fox, sable, marten, and skunk in economic importance.

Source: Wikipedia — American mink Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Long sleek dark brown body with white chin patch.

Similar species. Otter (much larger, fully webbed). Weasels (smaller).

Voice. Snarls, hisses, growls.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Small mammals (especially muskrats), fish, frogs, birds.

Behavior. Semi-aquatic; excellent swimmer.

§ Range

Throughout most of North America near water

§ Habitat

Freshwater wetlands, riverbanks, coastal estuaries

§ Threats

Mercury and PCB bioaccumulation, habitat fragmentation along rivers, road mortality.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the american mink is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Support clean water and contaminant cleanup. Maintain riparian buffers. Drive carefully near streams and ponds.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • NWF Wildlife Guide
  • iNaturalist
  • IUCN Red List 2016