M. erminea Skull Replica measures 1.8 inches. M. erminea Skull is museum quality polyurethane resin cast. Made in USA. 2-part skull (separate cranium and jaw). Known as Eurasian Ermine. Our precise skull can be used as a teaching tool, museum skull exhibit, home decor skull, or office decor skull.
The M. erminea, also known as the Stoat, Short Tailed Weasel or Beringian Ermine is a mustelid native to Eurasia and the northern portions of North America.
Sexual dimorphism in size is pronounced, with males being roughly 25% larger than females.
On average, M. erminea males measure 7.4–12.8 in. in body length, while females measure 6.7–10.6 in. The tail measures 3.0–4.7 in. in males and 2.6–4.2 in. in females.
The skulls of males measure 1.55–2.06 in. in length, while those of females measure 1.41–1.80 in. Males average 9.1 oz. in weight, while females weigh less than 6.3 oz.
Because of its wide circumpolar distribution, it is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. It is distinct from the long-tailed weasel (Neogale frenata), also known as the masked ermine, or big stoat. The two species are visually similar, especially the black tail tip.
The M. erminea has an elongated neck, the head being set exceptionally far in front of the shoulders.
The trunk is nearly cylindrical, and does not bulge at the abdomen. The greatest circumference of body is little more than half its length.
The M. erminea skull, although very similar to that of the least weasel, is relatively longer, with a narrower braincase. The projections of the skull and teeth are weakly developed, but stronger than those of the least weasel.
The eyes are round, black and protrude slightly. The whiskers are brown or white in color, and very long. The ears are short, rounded and lie almost flattened against the skull.
The claws are not retractable, and are large in proportion to the digits. Each foot has five toes.
M. erminea prey on small vertebrates that are usually warm-blooded creatures that are no bigger than a rabbit.
Although mammals are their meal of choice, they have a backup plan when food is scarce. The M. erminea diet typically includes a variation of rabbits, pika, shrews, squirrels, chipmunks, rats and mice.
If necessary, Mustela erminea will feed on birds, fish, insects, small reptiles, and eggs to survive.
They’ll also supplement with an occasional decaying carcass for extra sustenance. This is more common in winter when resources are hard to come by, and in harsher climates.
