Short-tailed Weasel
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A creature of the northern part of the United States, the Short-tailed Weasel (Mustela erminea), or ermine, attracts attention, mostly because of its fur.
They live year round in their habitat, often around the edge of forests and farms. During winter months the fur turns white to blend in with the snowy background. During the warmer months, the fur turns brown on the top. The tip of the tail remains black throughout the year.
While they rarely grow to a foot in length, for their size they are formidable foes. Their diet consists of smaller mammals and rodents within their territory along with insects, lizards and eggs when available.
© 2010. Patricia A. Michaels