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American Mink - Neovison vison Mustelidae Members: | Search Common: Search Scientific: |
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 Photo by: SBW, FKW |
| Distribution |
In NC, it occurs essentially statewide, though there are very few records for the extreme southern Coastal Plain. Occurs over most of the North American continent, north of Mexico, though it is absent over portions of some Southern states. | |
| Abundance | This is not a scarce species in the state, but it is infrequently seen, and roadkills are also infrequent. Thus, it is best stated to be uncommon over most of the state, though fairly common at least locally in some northern coastal areas. Seemingly rare in the southeastern counties . | |
| Seasonal Occurrence | Occurs year-round. | |
| Habitat |
Minks are well-known to be semi-aquatic, and generally occur very close to lake and pond shores, river/creek margins, swamps, and even estuaries. They also occur in marshes. They are seldom seen in upland situations. See also Habitat Account for General Waters and Shorelines | |
| Behavior | They are mostly nocturnal, though they can be occasionally seen during the day. They swim quite well. | |
| Comments | Because of their mostly nocturnal habits, Minks are certainly more numerous than most people would assume. Even so, observations are infrequent, though the iNaturalist website does have between 35-40 photographs that are considered to be "Research Grade" (as of early 2022). | |
| Origin | Native | |
| NC List | Official | |
 State Rank | S4 | |
| State Status | ||
| Global Rank | G5 | |
| Federal Status | ||
| subspecies |
Neovison vison vison, Neovison vison mink Neovison v. vison occurs in the mountains and possibly the foothills, whereas N. v. mink occurs over the remainder of the state. | |
| other_comName | Mink, North American Mink | |
| synonym | Mustela vison | |
| NC Map Map depicts all counties with a report (transient or resident) for the species. | Click on county for list of all database records for species in that county. |