07/31/2026
Happy Photo Friday!
Today, I would like to focus on a group of mammals that really needs some love. Mustelids are a type of mammal which includes weasels, ferrets, minks, otters and badgers. Although the only Mustelid in Texas that is listed as threatened, endangered or a species of greatest conservation need, is the presumed extirpated Black-footed Ferret, the Mustelids we do have faced several challenges.
1. Road mortality: Roadkill is a major cause of death for most wildlife, especially as they traverse larger areas, looking for suitable habitat and prey.
2. Previously unregulated fur trade, when populations suffered major losses.
3. Loss of habitat: Grassland and wetland habitats especially, have decreased in size and quality. Aquatic species like Otters may also suffer from polluted waters.
4. Loss of prey species: Loss of prey such as prairie dogs and other rodents, fish, crustaceans and more.
Our Mustelids in Texas include the North American River Otter, the Long-tailed Weasel, the American Badger, and the American Mink. These species can be hard to track, and we are always interested in their documentation.
They are so charismatic and adorable, as well as being important predators in their habitats. Explore on iNaturalist to see what mustelids may be found near you! (Warning: many of these posts will be roadkill photos.)
ID and photo credits in captions. Thank you, iNaturalist observers, for your excellent work documenting these elusive creatures.
