Eurasian Ermine Skull

$61.00

Although Eurasian Ermine are primarily terrestrial, they climb trees and swim well. Tree roots, hollow logs, stone walls, and rodent burrows are used as dens.

Description

Eurasian Ermine Skull Replica measures 1.8 inches. Eurasian Ermine Skull is museum quality polyurethane cast. Made in USA. 2-part skull (separate cranium and jaw). Our precise skull can be used as a teaching tool, museum skull exhibit, home décor skull, or office décor skull.

The Eurasian Ermine or Mustela 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.

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 name Ermine is used for species in the genus Mustela, especially the stoat, in its pure white winter coat, or the fur thereof. Introduced into New Zealand in the late 19th century to control rabbits, the Eurasian Ermine or Mustela erminea has had a devastating effect on native bird populations. It was nominated as one of the world’s top 100 worst invaders.

Eurasian Ermine or Mustela erminea fur was used in the 15th century by Catholic monarchs, who sometimes used it as the mozzetta cape. It has long been used on the ceremonial robes of members of the United Kingdom House of Lords. It was also used in capes on images such as the Infant Jesus of Prague.

Eurasian Ermine or Mustela 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. An ermine’s diet typically includes a variation of rabbits, pika, shrews, squirrels, chipmunks, rats and mice.

If necessary, a Ermine 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.

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Additional information

Weight 2.5 lbs
Dimensions 1.8 in
Weasel Ermine Facts

Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Carnivora
Family: Mustelidae
Subfamily: Mustelinae
Genus: Mustela
Linnaeus, 1758
Type species: Mustela erminea