mink, Either of two species of nocturnal semiaquatic carnivores in the weasel family (Mustelidae) that are trapped and raised commercially for their pelts. American mink (Neovison vison), found throughout North America except in arid parts of the southwestern U.S., is 17–29 in. (43–74 cm) long and weighs up to 3.5 lb (1.6 kg). The Eurasian species (Mustela lutreola) is slightly smaller. The rich brown coat consists of a dense, soft underfur overlaid with glossy guard hairs. Except for furs in the rare mutant colours produced by crossbreeding, wild mink fur is more valuable than “ranch mink.”
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