Long Tailed Weasel or Ermine?
January 29, 2011 – Recently, I was snow-shoeing down the access road from Mt. Kearsarge’s parking area in Wilmont, when an animal crossed the road 20 yards in front of me. I noticed it was about the size of a squirrel, but a bit leaner, and lower to the ground. The animal was absolutely white in color, except the tip of its tail which was black. I didn’t recognize the animal.
When I asked for ideas, several people responded: it was probably either a long-tailed weasel (most likely, and pictured on the left) or an ermine (pictured below). They are similar looking. Both molt twice a year, with a light/white coat in winter. Ermines are only about a foot or less in length, weasels are often a wee bit larger (but not much).
I learned that both animals are weasels – as are fishers, otters, and skunks! Both are mostly nocturnal and active throughout the year. They are fierce hunters with similar diets that include small mammals, birds, frogs, insects, earthworms, and when the going gets tough .. carrion. This experience, and the knowledge of board members, provided good education to yours truly, and rounded out the pleasure of my ritual Sunday hike. Weasel One notes my first of hopefully many more weasel sightings.
I can’t help but add, since my hike was up and down Mt. Kearsarge’s north side, my congratulations to the Society for the Protection of NH Forests for its recent acquisition of the Black Mt. acreage which preserves the valuable and enjoyable access to Mt. Kearsarge from the southwest via the Lincoln Trail.
– Jay Haines
