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Three species of small mustelids – the stoat (Mustela erminea), the weasel (Mustela nivalis), and the European polecat (Mustela putorius) – coexist in the varied landscape of North-Western Italy, but they remain largely elusive and poorly known. A recent study conducted by a group of Italian researchers, including Luca Maurino from the Protected Areas of the Cozie Alps, used ecological niche models (ENM) and a wide network of sightings to map the probability of presence of these species and compare their environmental requirements on a regional scale. The results, published on November 22nd in the scientific journal "Mammal Research", provide useful insights for guiding targeted conservation actions and focusing on emerging threats.

The ermine (Mustela erminea) is an agile and sprightly mustelid, widespread across much of Eurasia and North America. It is also found in the Alps, where it prefers open mountainous environments rich in natural burrows, pastures, high-altitude meadows, and areas with scattered bushes. It is a small-sized carnivore: the body measures between 17 and 33 centimeters, the tail between 5 and 12 centimeters, with a weight that varies from 100 to 450 grams. Males are significantly larger than females.