Mustelids
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The family Mustelidae, also known as Mustelids, constitute the largest family of carnivores in terms of number of species.
With few exceptions, they also rank among the smallest family of carnivores in terms of size.
Depending on the source consulted anywhere from fifty-five to sixty five mustelid species get divided into twenty-two genera. The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) lists 59 species, one of which, the Sea Mink, is extinct.
Eleven mustelid species are native to the United States. The sea otter and black-footed ferret are listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act.
Physically, most mustelids fit the typical weasel archetype. They are short, thin, fur bearing mammals, that upon viewing, seem to posses a strong curiosity for their surroundings.
Seventeen different Mustela species (ermines, ferrets, minks, and weasels) makes it the largest of the mustelid genera. Together the fourteen fresh water and salt water otter species account for approximately one quarter of all mustelids.
Mustelids often get mixed reviews from the human population. Otters often get credit for a cuteness factor. Badgers, weasels and polecats often serve as adjectives for unpleasant human characteristics. Historically, sable, ermine and mink represented a luxurious life.
The links in the box point to articles covering all of the native mustelids, along with a small sample of non-native mustelid species.
© 2010 Patricia A. Michaels