What is the Difference Between Stoat and Weasel?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚Stoats and weasels are both small mustelids found in Britain and Ireland, and they can be difficult to tell apart due to their similar appearance. However, there are some key differences between them:
- Size: Stoats are slightly larger (20-30 cm) than weasels (up to 20 cm long).
- Tail: Stoats have a longer tail (7-12 cm) with a distinctive black tip, while weasels have a short, stubby tail that is solely brown in color.
- Color: Stoats have a sandy brown color on their back and head, with a cream belly, and a straight division between the brown and cream fur. Weasels have a more patchy and irregular dividing line between their tawny brown back and pale belly.
- Throat: Stoats have no brown patches on their throat, while weasels have a brown patch or 'gular spot' on each side.
- Habitat and Behavior: Stoats prefer woodland and grassy areas, while weasels enjoy more diverse habitats, including urban areas. Stoats are also more nocturnal, while weasels are primarily diurnal.
Despite these differences, both species are carnivorous mammals that belong to the mustelid family and share many similarities in their appearance and behavior.
Comparative Table: Stoat vs Weasel
Here is a table comparing the differences between stoats and weasels:
| Feature | Stoat | Weasel |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Typical whole body length of 30-40cm | Typical whole body length of 20-27cm |
| Tail | Tail is around half the length of its body and ends in a bushy black tip | Tail is short and stubby, solely brown in color |
| Belly-Back Line | A clean, straight line where the cream fur of the belly meets the brown fur of the back | A jagged line where the cream fur of the belly meets the brown fur of the back |
| Winter Coat | Can turn white in winter, with a black tip on the tail | Does not turn white in winter |
| Preferred Prey | Mice, rabbits, voles, amphibians, and birds | Mice, rodents, rabbits, lemmings, and ducks |
| Activity | Primarily active in the evening and night time | Primarily active during the day |
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