Least weasel is the smallest carnivore on the planet

The weasel, or common weasel (Mustela nivalis) is the representative of the Weasel family (Mustelidae), kind of Ferrets and weasels (Mustela). It is the smallest of all predators: the length of a male 13-26 inches, and his weight of 40-250 grams. The female is less.

The Latin name of the animal – nivalis – meaning "snow": winter fur coat of the weasel turns white in color.





Weasel in winter coat (molting).

Why the affection called laskausko known bloodlust this little predator. Why he was given the inappropriate nature of the name?

It turns out that these animals are easily tamed, and become gentle and loyal friends. They go after the owner as the dog.

Known another version of the origin of the name. There is an ancient belief according to which weasels often turn to the witches who use feminine wiles to divert attention.





The family of Lusk. Author photo: Gary Mann.

Habitat lasciassi is a common animal which can be found throughout Eurasia (not only in Indochina), North Africa (except for the Arctic archipelago and the southern deserts) and northwestern Africa (Atlas mountains). Brought it in New Zealand.

To meet affection can almost all the landscape zones. Animals inhabit the forests and tundra, steppes and forest-steppes, deserts and semi-deserts, shores of ponds and borders of fields, in the mountains places of distribution reach Alpine meadows. She lives in the major cities. No its only in the polar desert and mountainous zones covered with snow.





Common weasel (Mustela nivalis). Author of the photo: Yersinia pestis.

The form is divided into several subspecies, with very different sizes. The smallest weasels are living in the cold Northern regions: in Northern Europe, Siberia, the far East and North America. In the same area inhabited by a competitor of weasels – ermine. Therefore, the weasel is hunting the small rodents and brings them out of the reach of ermine. The larger subspecies inhabit hot arid areas: the Mediterranean, Central and West Asia. They hunt for gerbils, gerbils and small squirrels – production beyond small kin. While lack of food can catch birds, young rabbits, amphibians, small fish, lizards, small snakes, insects. Often raids in the suburban home of a man and consume poultry – chickens, ducks and others. In such places, affection, dislike and often satisfied her hunt.

The habitat of the predator does not exceed a hectare. These natural lands is enough affection for food, since it can penetrate into any hole and get out the production.





Weasel with prey. Author of the photo: Joni-Pekka Luomala.

Animal shelters to serve as homes for mice and moles, a heap of brushwood and stones, stacks, wood buildings, hollow trees.

Enemies lacking any animal, have affection and enemies, it often becomes the prey of predatory birds (owls and even the bittern), do not disdain to hunt for her and fellow family – stoats, and larger predators – foxes, Martens, Sables, predators of the cat family.





Weasel became a victim of the great bittern (Botaurus stellaris). Author of the photo: Fausto Deseri.

The content of Laski domitile of Ancient Rome and medieval Europe used the weasel as a pet for hunting mice. But when the Old world was inhabited by large gray rat with which the small animals are difficult to handle, caresses drove Fredi and cats.





Feeding petting milk from a syringe. Author of the photo: Armando Caldas.

If you do decide to get affection, you will notice that it is easier tamed the kids, they need care and have to Tinker with their feeding. Therefore, in practice often catch adult animals and gradually tame. But in the process of training your hands will be bitten. If you are willing to spend a lot of time to adapt from the animal, it becomes a loyal and reliable friend.





The cultivation of affection at home from an early age. Author of the photo: Armando Caldas.

Feed your pet will have fresh and quality meat, eggs. Constantly needs to be in the animal, clean water.

Place weasel will choose myself. It can take the place of another pet. Moreover, it easily takes the food from cats and dogs.





Common weasel (Mustela nivalis). Author photo: Gary Mann.

Many problems can bring your affection, if the neighbors live poultry. She will destroy all these birds, turning your neighbor in the dead of the enemy. But if a bird lives with you, caress not touch, as she's not hunting where he lives.

Buy laschelle you still not change your mind to make your home a caress, before you encounter the question: "Where to buy affection?" Unfortunately, the weasels are on sale very rarely. Will have to catch the animal yourself or find the right person.

Chub Natalia, Kirill Usanov

P. S. And remember, only by changing their consumption — together we change the world! ©

Source: natureworld.ru/