Hituŋkasaŋ

The ermine or weasel is one of few animals of Ina Maka that changes depending on the season. The short and long tailed weasels will turn white in the winter from their brown summer coats. During winter they are known as ermine. The ermine were an important animal to the Lakota and their fierce and active lifestyle was sought out. Warriors had ermine tails and hides adorned to take in the power of the mighty ermine which is one of the best hunters in the animal kingdom. To keep up with its high metabolism the ermine will stockpile many kills throughout the day and store some for later. The ermine is a born hunter. 

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Color: Light Brown to Brown in summer, White in winter, Black tipped tail

Length: 10 inches

Weight: 6 ounces

Lifespan: 3-7 years in wild

Speed: 15 MPH