Japanese Weasel
Mustela itatsi
Conservation Status
Near ThreatenedMammalia · Carnivora · Mustelidae
About
The Japanese weasel is a carnivorous mammal belonging to the genus Mustela in the family Mustelidae. The most closely related Mustela species is the Siberian weasel. Its taxonomic species name, itatsi, is based on the Japanese word for weasel, itachi (イタチ). It is native to Japan where it occurs on the islands of Honshū, Kyūshū and Shikoku. It has been introduced to Hokkaidō and the Ryukyu Islands to control rodents and has also been introduced to Sakhalin Island in Russia.
Fun Fact
In the wild it can live for 2 to 3 years with the highest in the range living to about 5 years.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Found to inhabit grasslands, shrublands, forests and plantations.
Diet
Diet of the Japanese weasel involves a mix of animals including mice, reptiles, crayfish, and frogs.
Lifespan
3 years
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Hunting and Collection
- Climate Change