Identification
A small mustelid species. Body length: 190 – 262 mm; tail length: 135 – 175 mm; hind foot length: 33 – 48 mm; weight: 150 – 260 g. Possesses a pointed snout and small ears. The coat exhibits two distinct colors: the dorsal side ranges from light brown to dark brown or reddish-brown, while the ventral side is saffron yellow. A distinct line separates the dorsal and ventral colors along the flanks.
Biology and Ecology
Their diet primarily consists of rodents, but they occasionally consume small birds and chicks.
They inhabit forest edges, scrubland, areas along streams, lakes, and rocky mountainsides. Their dens are located at the base of trees or in rock crevices with dry, elevated ground. The dens have multiple chambers and entrances/exits. They are most active during early mornings and late evenings.
Distribution
Vietnam: Tuyen Quang (Chiem Hoa), Lao Cai (Ta Phinh, Sapa), Lai Chau (Muong Te), Bac Thai, Lang Son, Son La (Quynh Nhai), Quang Binh, Kontum (Sa Thay).
Worldwide: Himalayas, Nepal, northern India (Assam), Pakistan, Myanmar, southern China.
Value
They control rodent populations and can be domesticated for rodent control within households. They are also valuable for scientific research and aesthetic purposes.
Conservation Status
A rare species, infrequently encountered.
Recommended Conservation Measures
Prohibition of hunting and trapping. Encouragement of captive breeding and propagation in zoos.