Mink. Class Mammalia Order Carnivora Family Mustelidae Genus Mustela Species lutreola (European) vison (American) Conservation Concerns The

Mink. Class Mammalia Order Carnivora Family Mustelidae Genus Mustela Species lutreola (European) vison (American) Conservation Concerns The European mink is endangered due to hunting and habitat destruction. Range North America except the southwest, and Europe from France to western Siberia. Habitat Near rivers, lakes, swamps, and marshes. Size Length: 143 to 66 cm (17 to 26 in), including the tail. Weight: 0.44 to 1.5 kg (0.97 to 3.3 lb). Feeding Habits Minks are carnivores; they mainly eat small mammals, birds, crayfish, frogs, and fish. Offspring The female mink gives birth to an average of four to six young per litter. Life Span Four to five years in the wild. Did You Know Minks are very agile in water, as well as active on land. Minks often live in the burrows of other animals. The American mink has a stronger odor than the skunk. Minks are raised on large-scale farms to supply the fur industry. Microsoft ® Encarta ® 2009. © 1993-2008 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.