Stoad - RSPB Minsmere

Description: The stoat is part of the mustelid Family (taxonomy chart) and has a slender body of up to 31cm. The legs are short in proportion to the body and the tail is usually of a medium size but could also be shorter. It always will have a black tip. The fur coat is usually reddish brown on the back with a cream or white colour below. Sroads may change their fur colour to white allover, except for the black tail tip.
Life Expectancy: up to 5 years and in some exceptional cases up to 8 years
Native/Introduced: Native
Habitat: As stoads don't like to be out in the open their habitat and hunting ground is close to hedgerows, ditches, fens or across meadows or marshes.
Distribution in the UK: Widely spread across the UK
Status: Least Concern (IUCN Red List)
Information Source: Mammal Society, IUCN Red List