European polecat  (Mustela putorius)

Learn about the scientific name of this species and how it fits into the tree of life at Nature Navigator.

Description

The largest member of the genus Mustela in Britain (3), polecats have weasel-like slender bodies, short legs and a broad head (1). Males are much larger and heavier than females, but other than this size difference they share the same general appearance, with a buff to black coloured coat (2), and a black face with a white mask around it (5). During winter the coat is thick, lustrous and glossy, but in summer it is thinner and appears somewhat faded (1).

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