The Life of Animals | Stoat | The stoat is entirely similar to the least weasel in general proportions, manner of posture and movement, though the tail is longer Relatively, always Exceeding a third of the body length, though it is shorter than That of the long-tailed weasel. The male stoat has a curved baculum with a proximal knob in the which increases in weight as it ages.
Unusually Among the Carnivora, the size of stoats tends to Decrease proportionally with latitude, in contradiction to Bergmann's Rule. There is pronounced sexual dimorphism in size, with males being 1.5-2.0 times the weight of females On average, males measure 187-325 mm in body length, while females measure 170-270 mm. The tail measures 75-120 mm in males and 65-106 mm in females. In males, the Hind foot measures 40.0-48.2 mm, while in females it is 37.0-47.6 mm.
The height of the ear measures 18.0-23.2 mm in males and 14.0-23.3 mm. The skulls of males measure 39.3-52.2 mm in length, while Those of females measure 35.7-45.8 mm. Males weigh 258 grams, while females weigh less than 180 grams. The stoat has large anal scent glands measuring 8.5 x 5 mm in males and Smaller in females. The glands Produce a strong musky odour produced by sulfuric Several compounds. Epidermal secretions, the which are Deposited During body rubbing, are chemically distinct from the anal scent glands, the which contain a higher proportion of volatile chemicals.
When attacked or aggressive, the stoat excretes the contents of its anal glands, producing a strong, musky odour, the which is distinct from That of least weasels. Ing Occurs in the April-July period. Stoats are not monogamous, with litters of mixed paternity Often being. Males play no part in rearing the young, the which are born blind, Deaf, Toothless and covered in fine white or pinkish down. Kits Produce a fine chirping noise. Adults Trill ing excitedly before, and indicate through quiet submission Trilling, whining and squealing. When nervous, the stoat hisses, and Will intersperse this with sharp barks or prolonged shrieks and screeching aggressive. Aggressive behavior in stoats is categorised in the following forms
