mustelid

[ muhs-tl-id ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

any of numerous carnivorous mammals of the family Mustelidae, comprising the weasels, martens, skunks, badgers, and otters.

mustelid

/ mŭs′tə-lĭd′ /

Any of various small to midsize carnivorous mammals of the family Mustelidae, usually having long, slender bodies, short legs, and well-developed anal scent glands. The pelts of many mustelids have been important for use in clothing. Weasels, skunks, badgers, wolverines, ferrets, mink, martens, and otters are mustelids.

1905–10; < New Latin Mustelidae family name, equivalent to Mustel ( a ) a genus ( Latin mustēla weasel) + -idae -id ²

The Mustelid are allied to the Viverrid in their general conformation.

As a small point of likeness between this Mustelid and the Procyonidae may be mentioned the colours of the face.

Like all the other members of the family Mustelid, the Marten is provided with glands near the base of the tail.

Browse