Mammal · GBIF taxon 5218972
Siberian Weasel
Mustela sibiricaAlso known as Kolonok
The Siberian Weasel is a slender, short-legged carnivore with warm yellow-brown fur and a darker facial mask. It searches burrows, rock piles, stream edges, and buildings for rodents and other small prey.
Slender CarnivoreRodent HunterScent Marking
Licensed referenceDibyendu Ash / CC BY-SA 4.0 · cc-by-sa
—observations
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—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Mice
- Voles
- Small birds
Predators
- Eagles
- Owls
- Larger carnivores
ThreatsTrapping, road mortality, poisoning, habitat loss, and persecution
HabitatsForest, scrub, river valleys, farmland edges, rocky ground, and settlements
Life spanOften 5 to 8 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyMustelidae
- SpeciesMustela sibirica
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- A trapped or cornered weasel can bite deeply; never touch, feed, or block its escape.
- Why it is dangerous
- Sharp teeth and claws can cause a serious wound when the animal is cornered or restrained.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Recognize a long low-bodied mustelid with warm yellow-brown fur and a darker facial area.
- What to do
- Never capture or handle it; secure pets, provide an escape route, and contact wildlife professionals if needed.
Responsible observation
- Movement: Watch for quick low bounds along cover edges.
- Space: Remain still and leave a broad unobstructed retreat.
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