Stoats, weasels and ferrets

Stoats, weasels and ferrets are types of mustelids. They are about the size of your forearm (20-30 cm) and have short, rounded ears. Mustelids can be brown-red and white or black and white.

They can be mistaken for rats. However, mustelids have a more elongated body than rats and their tail is hairy.

If you can identify the species of mustelid in the photographs, please let us know in the comment box.

For useful information about mustelids in New Zealand, visit: