There are several types of North American weasels, including least weasels, long-tailed weasels, and stoats or short-tailed weasels. Predatory by nature, weasels mostly eat small rodents, are notorious for occasionally stealing chicken eggs, and sometimes participate in surplus killing sprees that leave entire families of chipmunks and other small animals dead. Contrary to popular belief, however, weasels do not kill other animals solely for blood.
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Weasels have slender, snake-like bodies ranging from about 7 inches (18 cm) to almost 9 inches (23 cm) in length. Short legs, a long neck, sharp teeth and claws, and a small head make up their other distinguishing characteristics. Long-tailed weasels and stoat weasels have black-tipped tails, with the latter species also featuring white feet. Least weasels also have white feet, but their tails lack a black tip. During the winter, weasels produce white fur coats to help camouflage themselves in the snow.
With the exception of Antarctica and Australia, weasels are commonly found around the globe. Long-tailed weasels are found throughout the U.S., excluding the desert, as well as in southwestern Canada. Stoats live throughout most of Canada and the northwestern United States, including Alaska. The least weasel also inhabits much of Canada and Alaska, with a range that extends down through Minnesota, the Great Lakes region, and parts of New York. Most weasels prefer to live close to water sources and occupy holes and burrows left behind by prey.
Are weasels known to enter homes or yards?
As opportunistic feeders, weasels continually search for food. Though seldom seen in buildings, weasels are curious by nature, which can lead them inside on rare occasions. Properties with dense rodent populations, such as farms, are especially attractive to the predators. Additionally, chicken coops are tantalizing sources of meals for weasels, as both the eggs and fowl are easy prey in these contained environments.
Do weasels harm people or property?
Despite their small stature, weasels are known to attack and capture prey at least twice their size. Weasels can be dangerous to humans, as the predatory animals possess sharp claws and teeth. However, they typically flee when faced with threats and emit a pungent odor to dissuade predators. Weasels often go undiscovered on farms until chickens are disturbed. When weasels attack chickens, they damage the area where the birds are contained and cause the loss of eggs and/or poultry.
Exclude weasels by closing off potential entry points larger than 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Buildings in which animals are housed, like barns and chicken coops, should receive the most attention regarding weasel control and exclusion. Weasels are considered nuisances only when it comes to poultry, as the pests otherwise keep small rodent populations in check.
Various forms of trapping and weasel removal can deter the pests from invading. Critter Control wildlife specialists are well equipped to handle weasel trapping and removal, as well as develop a comprehensive plan of action that effectively keeps the nuisance animals at bay.