Mink

Order - Carnivora
Family - Mustelidae

Mink Description

Mink have 34 teeth, with 4 prominent canine teeth to help in the killing of prey species. Mink have rather long and supple bodies with relatively short legs. There are 5 toes on each foot which have partial webbing between toes. Tails are fully furred.

Males are larger than females. Overall lengths of males are 20 to 30 inches, and females measure 16 to 21 inches. Male weights exceed 3 pounds in many areas and females usually weigh 1 1/2 to 2 pounds.

Mink fur is short and dense. Shades of color vary somewhat according to region, and individuals. Most shades of color are chocolate to almost black. Patches of white fur are typical on the chins of most mink, and many mink exhibit patches of white fur on throats, chests and bellies. These small patches are irregular in shape, and vary with the individual.

In some areas, occasional mink have a light colored and wooly under fur. This is evident on the lower backs of the mink. These pelts are referred to as "cotton" mink, and these pelts have lesser value.

Mink glands are present near the anal area under the skin of both male and female mink. Musk is sometimes released when the mink is excited or stressed. The odor is powerful and unpleasant.