Mustela sibirica (Carnivora: Mustelidae)

Abstract: Mustela sibirica Pallas, 1773, commonly known as the Siberian weasel, is a widely distributed Palearctic musteline with natural populations ranging from west of the Ural Mountains of Siberia to the Far East and south to Taiwan and the Himalayas. A key characteristic that distinguishes M. sibirica from most sympatric musteline species is the occurrence of a black mask on its face that surrounds the eyes, a white muzzle and chin, and the presence of a nearly completely monotone yellowish-brown coat. Although M. sibirica is hunted to make “kolinsky stable-hair” paintbrushes, populations remain stable and the species is currently listed as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation and Nature and Natural Resources. Version of Record, first published online September 27, 2018, with fixed content and layout in compliance with Art. 8.1.3.2 ICZN