Ermine is another name for Short-tailed weasels.

Ermine is another name for Short-tailed weasels.

• A. False
• B. Only in summer
• C. Only in winter
• D. True

Answer: (D)

Ermine refers to the short-tailed weasel when it has its winter pelage. In cold months, this species (Mustela erminea) molts to a white coat with a black-tipped tail, and that white fur has historically been called “ermine.” Because the term is tied to the animal’s winter appearance, it’s commonly used to identify the short-tailed weasel in rehab and wildlife work. The animal is the same species year-round; the name ermine is about the winter fur, not a separate species or a summer form.

Ermine refers to the short-tailed weasel when it has its winter pelage. In cold months, this species (Mustela erminea) molts to a white coat with a black-tipped tail, and that white fur has historically been called “ermine.” Because the term is tied to the animal’s winter appearance, it’s commonly used to identify the short-tailed weasel in rehab and wildlife work. The animal is the same species year-round; the name ermine is about the winter fur, not a separate species or a summer form.