Least Weasel

The least weasel, or Cretan weasel, locally referred to as the ‘kalogiannou’, is an endemic subspecies of the common weasel found on the island of Crete.

The least weasel (Mustela nivalis galinthias) is an endemic subspecies of the common weasel. In Crete, this animal is also known as 'kalogiannou' because its white-striped belly resembles a nun.

The Cretan weasel, a diminutive nocturnal creature, boasts short legs and a slender body measuring up to 24 centimetres in length. Its fur exhibits a dark brown hue. This elusive weasel spends its daytime hours ensconced within its nest, often making its habitat in wooded areas and scrublands. Its diet consists of a variety of prey, including mice, eggs, birds, and rabbits, among other small creatures.

The female Cretan weasel gives birth twice a year to litters of 4 to 8 young, which are born blind.

Weasels can be responsible for damage to homes and may pose a threat to birds and hens. However, they are considered beneficial due to their role in controlling mouse populations by preying on them.

Photo: jill@ghostbear.org Via https://create.vista.com/el/un...