Definition & Meaning of "stoat"

What is a "stoat"?

The stoat, also known as the short-tailed weasel or ermine, is a small carnivorous mammal that belongs to the Mustelidae family. It has a long, slender body, short legs, and a long, bushy tail. The stoat has a distinctive coat that changes color seasonally, typically being brown in the summer and white in the winter, with a black tip on its tail. Stoats are known for their agility, speed, and ability to climb trees, making them effective hunters of small mammals, birds, and insects. They are primarily found in northern regions of Europe, Asia, and North America, and are known for their adaptability to various habitats, including forests, grasslands, and tundras. Stoats are considered skilled predators and are known for their ability to prey on animals larger than themselves.