Posted by Rona Clements on August 5, 2005

Q: Will wild mink attack my 2 magpie ducks and 1 khaki campbell. will it do any harm to my rabbit or cat?

Habitat: stream/river

Habitat: stream/river

A: Although Mink are rather small mammals, they are especially strong and aggressive and can take some rather large prey. Furthermore, they are rather widespread and common, especially near water. If you have ducks that are not kept in a pen at night, they're certainly at risk of all kinds of predators, not just Mink. I'd make a point of closing up my ducks at night to be on the safe side. With plenty of wild food around, Mink will often concentrate in field and stream but in times of food shortage or just an "easy-to-catch domestic animal", they may focus on your home area looking for food. Rabbits, especially a domestic one, is certainly vulnerable too so be sure its hutch is secure. I've not heard of a cat being taken by a Mink so I think your cat is safe.

I hope this helps you out, it's certainly no fun to have wild animals take any of your special animals. Of course, they don't realize they're doing anything bad - they're just hungry. Good luck to you and your pets.

John Wiessinger ( August 6, 2005)