The weasel Mustela nivalis as a symbol of the year of 2021 in Ukraine: review of research, features, and etymology

Abstract

Long-term actions of the ‘Mammal of the Year’ cycle occupy a special place in the string of events of theriological life in Ukraine. Such events have been held in Ukraine since 2009, and 2021 was dedicated to the weasel, Mustela nivalis. A brief overview of the history and current research on weasels in Ukraine and neighbouring countries is presented; the corresponding bibliography is compiled. Information about the unique features of the species Mustela nivalis, both biological and cultural, important for the formation of ideas about this species and the dissemination of knowledge about it, is generalized. Such materials are presented in the format of the already traditional collection ‘21 facts about the symbol species of the year.’ A series of photos of weasels from the archives of the Ukrainian Theriological Society is presented, which reflects the variety of colouration, poses, and behaviour of this smallest species of carnivorans in the fauna of Europe.