The American Mink, Mustela vison, that inhabit Virginia also inhabit much of Canada, Alaska and the lower 48 states (excluding parts of the southwest). This carnivorous mammal is a small, quick and agile member of the weasel family, Mustelidae. The mink has been highly prized for centuries, in Virginia as well as other parts of the world, for it valuable pelt. (“Mink – Encyclopedia Americana”, 2004) This paper will discuss the life history of the species, the distribution of the mink within the state of Virginia, the ecological relationships it has, and the conservation efforts, if any are being taken, as mink populations had been reported as declining in the state of Virginia in the mid-1980s. (Ogle, Scanlon, Kirkpatrick, & Gwynn, 1985, p. 29)
Table of Contents
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Mink Overview
- Populations of Mink Virginia: From Decline to Pest
- Conclusion
Objectives and Key Themes
This paper examines the life history, distribution, ecological relationships, and conservation efforts regarding the American Mink in Virginia. The study highlights the species' resilience, focusing on its rebound from population decline in the 1980s due to environmental regulations and reduced demand for fur. It also delves into the mink's current ecological impact, specifically in Virginia and other areas where it has been introduced.
- The American Mink's life history and ecological characteristics
- The impact of heavy metal poisoning on mink populations in Virginia
- The mink's population rebound due to environmental regulations and reduced fur demand
- The mink's invasive presence in other countries, particularly in Britain, and its effects on native wildlife
- The American Mink's growing ecological impact in Virginia, especially on coastal bird populations
Chapter Summaries
- Abstract: Introduces the American Mink, its distribution, and the paper's focus on its life history, ecological relationships, and conservation in Virginia.
- Introduction: Provides a general overview of the American Mink, its characteristics, and its historical significance in Virginia.
- Mink Overview: Discusses the physical characteristics, behavior, habitat preferences, and reproductive cycle of the American Mink.
- Populations of Mink Virginia: From Decline to Pest: Examines the historical decline in mink populations in Virginia due to heavy metal poisoning and the subsequent rebound thanks to environmental regulations and reduced fur demand. The chapter also explores the American Mink's invasive presence in other countries and its ecological impact on native wildlife.
Keywords
American Mink, Mustela vison, Virginia, life history, ecological relationships, conservation, heavy metal poisoning, environmental regulations, fur demand, invasive species, Britain, water vole, polecat, ecological impact, coastal birds.
- Quote paper
- Kimberly Wylie (Author), 2004, Mink in Virginia, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/57786
