Mink Animals Research Paper

Mink Animal

The American mink animal is a member of the weasel family and its name is derived from the Swedish work “meank.” Minks were successfully raised for profits from their pelts until the late 60s when the supply outnumbered demand and the production costs outweighed profits. During this time, many mom and pop mink farms went out of business. Even so, minks are still the primary animal raised for profits from their pelts, with the vast majority of mink farms located in the northern states.

Characteristics

Unlike the European mink, the American mink animal is not endangered and has an abundant population. Its long sleek body is approximately 2-feet long with a pointed snout, short stout legs, webbed feet, small ears and eyes with

Their mating season beings in February and lasts for several months. The gestation period lasts for 40 to 75 days when a litter of one to eight ‘kits or cubs’ are born. The kits remain with the mother for approximately six months when they become independent and strike out on their own. Female minks are known as ‘sows’ and male minks ‘boars.’

Habitat

Mink animals typically lead the life of a loaner and only come together during mating season. They typically reside in forested areas near rivers, streams, ponds, lakes and marshy areas where there is tree cover. The mammal is semi-aquatic and spends quite a bit of its time in watery areas searching for food. Minks are nocturnal and are active year-round.

They make their homes in hollowed logs or dens of other animals, such as muskrats or beavers. Minks will also dig a den along stream banks. The mammal makes its home a bit cozier by lining it with leaves, fur and grass.

Range

The range of the American mink is quite diverse. It stretches into Canada and down through the southeast, reaching downwards through Florida. Minks are absent in portions of the west and southwestern areas of the