Ermine resemble the long-tailed weasel (Mustela frenata) in general appearance and coloration, but is smaller, has a shorter tail, and has white fur on the inner side of the hind legs. Least weasels (Mustela nivalis) are also similar in appearance to M. erminea, but are smaller and do not have any black on the tail.

How do you identify an ermine?

Ermines can easily be identified by the black tip on their tail. It is most noticeable when they have white winter coloring, but it also exists with its brown summer coat. The least weasel, which is becoming ever-increasingly rare in Iowa, and the mink both lack a black tail tip.

Are Ermines friendly?

A chance encounter with an ermine on the road was a sure sign of ill fortune. Luckily, one could counteract the bad mojo by greeting the ermine as a friendly neighbor.