Field signs
Mink footprints are approximately 40 mm in length. Typically four to five toes are seen on the print and the claw marks look like apple pips. It is very difficult to differentiate between polecat-ferret and mink prints. Mink droppings may be confused with those of otter, polecat-ferret and other mustelids. Difference may be determined by smell; otter spraint is almost sweet whereas mink scat has a foul scent. Depending on diet, mink droppings may contain bones, hair or feathers and are around five to eight centimetres long with a tapered end.
Habits
Mink are associated with wetland habitats but may occupy other habitat types subject to food availability. They prefer rivers, streams and ditches as these provide plenty of cover.
Reproduction and life cycle
Mating occurs in March or April and four to six babies (kits) are produced annually. As with other mustelids, embryonic implantation can be delayed and breeding may begin earlier depending on the weather conditions. Gestation can last approximately 40 days and the young are born in May, being blind with a fine covering of hair. Whilst rearing young, females may travel up to three kilometres each night to provide food for their offspring. The weaning process begins at five to six weeks and by August the juveniles disperse up to 40 km into new territories.
Distribution, status and conservation
American mink are found throughout Britain, with a higher population density in southern England. The Kent map shows the connection between mink and the more complex marshland habitats like Romney Marsh, but more notably it shows a similar distribution with that of the native water vole. The north Kent marshes have been identified as an important area for water voles, and a monitoring and trapping project is underway to remove the mink from this area to help ensure the safety of the voles.
