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mink

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From: Barb Scott
City:
Lake Summerset, IL
For the last three summers we have seen a small weasel shaped mammal running along our waterfront. This summer we have seen two adults and approx 6 babies. We think they are mink. Should we be concerned? Are they aggressive? They might be hunting, living under our dock.

 
Extension Message
From: Laura Kammin
Visiting Extension Specialist, Pollution Prevention
Extension-Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant College Program
lkammin@illinois.edu
The animals you describe do sound like mink. There is not cause for concern. Mink are not aggressive toward people unless threatened. They are opportunistic predators and will hunt muskrats, mice, rabbits, shrews, fish, frogs, crayfish, insects, snakes, waterfowl and other birds. If you have any other questions about the animals please feel free to e-mail me.

 
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