Least Weasel

The least weasel is the world’s smallest carnivoran. It has a long tubular body, short limbs, a flattened head, rounded ears, large dark eyes, and a short tail measuring less than one-quarter of its head-and-body length. Northern populations change from rusty brown above and white below in summer to entirely white in winter. Unlike the stoat, the least weasel never has a black tail tip. Males are larger than females. (Animal Diversity Web)

Least weasels occupy tundra, taiga, coniferous and deciduous forest, grassland, farmland, and other covered habitats across the Northern Hemisphere. Their narrow bodies let them pursue rodents through underground and subnivean tunnels. They do not usually excavate dens, instead using burrows abandoned by prey or other digging animals. Small rodents dominate the diet, supplemented by birds, eggs, and other small vertebrates. Breeding is concentrated in spring and summer but may occur intermittently throughout the year. (Animal Diversity Web)