European polecat European polecat The European polecat ("Mustela putorius") – also known as the common ferret, black or forest polecat, or fitch (as well as some other names) – is a species of mustelid native to western Eurasia and north Morocco. It is of a generally dark brown colour, with a pale underbelly and a dark mask across the face. Occasionally, colour mutations, including albinos and erythrists, occur. Compared to minks and other weasels – fellow members of the genus "Mustela" – the polecat has a shorter, more compact body; a more powerfully built skull and dentition; is less agile; and it
Saharan striped polecat night in the open in a quite deliberate way with its tail held vertically. Before releasing the anal emission it will raise its fur in an attempt to warn the potential attacker. In Tunisia these animals are often caught and exploited because of the tribal belief that they may increase male fertility. Saharan striped polecat The Saharan striped polecat, also known as the Saharan striped weasel, Libyan striped weasel, and the North African striped weasel ("Ictonyx libycus") is a species of mammal in the family Mustelidae. This animal is sometimes characterized as being a part of the genus "Poecilictis", and