Mountain Weasel
About Mountain Weasel
The Mountain Weasel is a species of weasel that prefers to live at high altitudes, usually over 11,500 feet (3,505 meters). This species is sometimes referred to as the Pale Weasel or Altai Weasel, as well. Mountain weasel undergoes spring and autumn molts. The winter coat is dark yellowish to a ruddy brown on the back, with pale yellow to creamy white on throat and belly. The upper head between the muzzle and ears is usually darker gray-brown.
Mountain Weasel features
Habitat and ecology
The mountain weasel lives chiefly in the mountain at elevations up to 3,500 m or more. It may be found in mixed taiga, highland steppes, or above timberline among heaps of stones. This species maybe able to live in a larger range of habitats (sand dunes, among reeds, etc.). It may live near human habitations and nests in rock crevices, among tree roots, or in burrow of rodents. Mountain weasels arechiefly nocturnal, but occasionally hunt during the day. They are very quick and agile, able to swim and climb as well as run. When faced with danger, these animals may make loud chirring sounds and eject a strong-smelling secretion from their anal glands.
Threats
Habitat loss, over grazing, trapped for fur trade, climate change and severe weathers.
- Common name
- Mountain Weasel
- Status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Cold high mountains
- Food
- Grasses & leaves
- Tail length
- 100 mm – 150 mm
- Length
- 217 mm – 287 mm
- Weight
- 122 g – 350 g
- Age
- 7 – 10 years