MINK : More exactly American mink : Neovison vison or Mustela vison
Mink have been sighted in West Dunbartonshire such as along the upper Leven and adjoining residential areas where they may be trying to find food. Although quite different in shape, size and to some extent diet, they may sometimes be confused with otters. When swimming in our waters, you may see little more than some movement and perhaps a trail of bubbles. [Also see OTTERS]
As the SSPCA says : Mink are a non-native, invasive species in Scotland. Since they were introduced in this country, they have had a devastating effect on biodiversity, especially in the Western Isles. As fierce predators, they pose a particular threat to ground-nesting seabirds and salmon. Projects to control mink populations are underway across large parts of Scotland.
The Scottish Invasive Species Initiative goes further : The American mink (Mustela vison) is a well-known invasive non-native species. It spread throughout the country following escapes from fur farms in the latter half of the 20thcentury. Being an opportunistic predator, often killing more than they require for food, mink have had a devastating effect on our native wildlife. In particular ground nesting birds and water vole populations are vulnerable to predation by this avid hunter.
You should report any sightings of mink contact the The Scottish Invasive Species Initiative using the link below. It is working with volunteers and partners to control mink across the northern third of Scotland. This is done by using mink monitoring rafts to establish if mink are present in an area then once detected mink are trapped and humanely dispatched.
Again quoting the SSPCA :
Mink are widespread across Scotland except in the far north of Scotland and on some of the islands.
They will make their dens near bodies of water, such as streams, lochs or ponds, that have nearby tree cover. However, they have been known to make their homes near farmland or in gardens and even in towns. Mink dig dens or repurpose hollow logs to live in, adding grass, leaves or fur leftover from prey to make it cosier.
Mink are fiercely territorial animals and mostly live alone, typically only coming together to breed
As they are an invasive species, if caught they cannot be released again and need to be put down.
Picture from BBC Country File website. Note the pointed nose (Otters are comparatively blunted).
COUNTRY FILE (BBC) https://www.countryfile.com/wildlife/mammals/mink-guide-how-to-identify-where-to-see-and-species-facts:
SCOTTISH INVASIVE SPECIES INITIATIVE : https://www.invasivespecies.scot/mink-control-project
Reporting a sighting : https://www.invasivespecies.scot/report-american-mink-sighting
