Eye contact with a Mink

Taken on 23 April 2013 in Fish Creek Park. Several of us were treated to seeing more than one of these beautiful wild Mink, but I haven't heard of anyone seeing them again for many weeks. I guess we were just really lucky with our timing.

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_mink

"Mink are ferocious predators that are about the size of a housecat and chocolate-brown in color. Their long, thin bodies, short legs, small eyes and ears, and sleek fur make them just the right size to fit in many holes, crevices and burrows to pursue prey. They may eat ground squirrels, rats, snakes and even birds. Mink are also semi-aquatic and their webbed feet allow them to capture frogs, clams and even fish .... They are generally shy creatures but can be very bold if their curiosity is piqued. Those who are fortunate to observe a mink’s behavior should use caution. The animals have scent glands under the skin and when they get excited or stressed, musk is released. The obnoxious odor can be just as repulsive as a skunk’s." A different website, for Alberta, states that Mink eat ducks, fish, Muskrat and other small birds and rodents.

www.wildlifedepartment.com/wildlifemgmt/species/mink.htm