Description
Weasels are long, slender animals with the typical short legs and low profile of mustelids. They are the smallest members of the family Mustelidae found in South Carolina, standing only 2 to 3 inches high at the shoulder. The fur is brown with white or yellow markings on the under parts. In the northern region of weasels’ range, they have a white winter pelage. However, in South Carolina the summer and winter colors are similar.

Average Size
Males weigh 8 to 12 ounces, and females weigh only 3 to 8 ounces.

Life Expectancy
Approximately 5 years

Preferred Habitat
Weasels occupy a variety of habitats ranging from upland forest to bottomland swamps. They benefit from the “edge effect” that is created at the borders between woods and fields or along fence rows. They may be found in close proximity to man and have been known to raid hen houses.