Mink Invasion!

I had a phone call recently from a Chorlton resident named Martin. Chorlton Brook runs at the bottom of Martin's garden and recently, he tells me, the garden has been invaded by Mink. These creatures appear to be fearless and he has watched them take fish and newts from his garden pond; he is also worried that they may be taking birds and small mammals as well. He is right to be concerned as they have a reputation as ruthless predators.

American Mink (Mustela vison)are members of the Weasel Family (Mustelidae). They were originally bred in captivity, in both Britain and continental Europe, for their fur. Over the years captive animals have escaped and established breeding populations in the wild. Because of their voracious appetites they pose a great danger to our native wildlife.

Has anyone else seen Mink in their gardens and the wider Mersey Valley (I've certainly seen them at Sale Water Park)? And does anyone have any ideas about what can be done about them?

Posted by Dave Bishop, 7th December 2009