COMPARISON OF TWO POPULATIONS OF MINK FROM ALASKA

• Published in: Canadian Journal of Zoology
• Main Author: Burns, John J.
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Canadian Science Publishing 1964
• Subjects: Animal Science and Zoology; Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics; Yukon; Alaska
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/z64-104; http://www.nrcresearchpress.com/doi/pdf/10.1139/z64-104

Samples of two populations of mink from within the presently outlined range of Mustela vison ingens (Osgood) were compared. The samples consisted of 57 mink from the vicinity of Aniak. Alaska, and 51 from the vicinity of the type locality, Fort Yukon, Alaska. These Samples were qualitatively and quantitatively compared to determine taxonomic affinities or differences. The kind and degree of variation in cranial measurements and body length, as well as pelage characteristics, indicated that the sample of mink from the Aniak area was subspecifically distinct from the topotype specimens. The Aniak population has been designated as Mustela vison aniakensis.