Indonesian Mountain Weasel (Mustela lutreolina)

Description

The Indonesian mountain weasel, scientifically known as Mustela lutreolina, is a remarkable species of weasel that inhabits the islands of Java and Sumatra in Indonesia. This elusive mammal is characterized by its slender body, measuring around 11–12 inches in length, and a relatively long tail of 5–6 inches. Its fur is predominantly dark brown with a distinctive white patch on its throat, adding to its unique appearance.

Appearance

The Indonesian mountain weasel can be distinguished by its small size and sleek physique, setting it apart from other weasel species. Its dark brown fur and white throat patch make it easily recognizable, while its agile movements and keen senses reflect its adaptability to its mountainous environment.

Distribution

This species is endemic to the islands of Java and Sumatra in Indonesia. It is primarily found at elevations exceeding 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) in mountainous, tropical, and rainforest areas. The population density of the Indonesian mountain weasel remains notably concentrated within these specific elevations and habitats, reflecting its specialized ecological niche.

Habitat Preferences

The Indonesian mountain weasel thrives in mountainous, tropical, and rainforest environments, where it has adapted to the challenging terrain and climatic conditions. These ecosystems provide the weasel with suitable prey, such as pikas, voles, muskrats, and rabbits, which form the core of its carnivorous diet. The weasel’s ability to navigate rugged landscapes and its preference for higher elevations contribute to its survival and well-being in these habitats.

This comprehensive profile offers an in-depth understanding of the Indonesian mountain weasel, shedding light on its distinctive characteristics, distribution, and habitat preferences.

Facts About Indonesian mountain weasel

1. The Indonesian mountain weasel (Mustela lutreolina) is found on the islands of Java and Sumatra in Indonesia at elevations over 1,000 meters (source: Animalia Bio).
2. They live in mountainous, tropical, and rainforest areas (source: iNaturalist).
3. Indonesian mountain weasels have a body length of 11–12 inches and a tail length of 5–6 inches (source: iNaturalist).
4. They mate from March to May, and the average gestation period is 30 days (source: Animal Diversity Web).
5. The Indonesian mountain weasel was classified as endangered under the IUCN criteria B1 and B2c (source: Shaimeirilab).
6. The species is found in the Indo-Malayan realm (source: Encyclopedia of Life).
7. The first record of the Indonesian mountain weasel from northern Sumatra was documented in a publication by WCS Indonesia (source: WCS Indonesia).
8. The Indonesian mountain weasel is a type of weasel that lives at high altitudes (source: Simple English Wikipedia).
9. The species gives birth to 2 to 12 offspring, and the average time to independence is not specified (source: Animal Diversity Web).
10. It is only the second photograph of a wild individual of the Indonesian mountain weasel (source: WCS Indonesia).