LONG-TAILED WEASEL (Mustela frenata nevadensis)
Very slender weasel with a flattened head and beady eyes. Fur is dark brown, black tip on tail, and buffy underparts. Winter coat is snow white with black-tipped tail, and is then called “ermine.” Total length 16 inches. There are about 36 different kinds of weasels in the United States.
It is incredible that such a small body could contain such a remarkably vicious nature as that of the weasel. Most animals kills for food, but the long saber-sharp teeth of the weasel kill wantonly and apparently just for the sake of killing. They first suck the warm blood from the base of the skull or neck of their victim and then eat portions of its meat and bones. They are quick and intelligent and can subdue animals several times their size. They are quite common throughout the Park up to timberline, and are so curious and unafraid that once seen, they may be attracted by making various squeaks and sounds.