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A calm Tennessee pond with cattails and a creek flowing in, a stick beaver lodge near the far bank, soft evening light and reflections.

Wildlife of Tennessee · Pond, Creek and Water Animals

American Mink in Tennessee

A fast predator that raids chicken coops and duck pens. Call 615-357-7797 any hour.

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An American mink with sleek dark brown fur on a mossy creek bank in Tennessee, sharp wildlife photo.

At a Glance

About the American Mink

Animals around ponds, creeks and shorelines flood land, burrow into banks and take fish and poultry. The right control depends on the animal and the water.

Humane Exclusion

Risk: A fast predator that raids chicken coops and duck pens.

Call 615-357-7797

Scientific nameNeogale vison
Size20 to 28 inches
Where it shows upCreek banks, ponds, boathouses and poultry coops
When it is activeNight and dawn

Signs You Have One

How to Tell

These are the clues that point to a american mink.

  • Dead ducks or chickens near water
  • Musky smell near coops and boat sheds
  • Slender tracks along creek banks

Humane Exclusion

What We Do About the American Mink

We favor exclusion, one-way exits and deterrents so the animal leaves on its own and cannot return. Trapping is used only where it is allowed and needed.

Prevention

Keep Them Away

Simple steps that help for this kind of animal.

  • Protect valuable trees with wire wrap
  • Use culvert guards to stop beaver dams
  • Fence ponds and coops against otters and mink
  • Check rules before trapping or moving any animal

Similar Animals

More Pond, Creek and Water Animals

Free Tool

What Animal Is It? Identifier

Pick where it is, when you notice it and the signs you see, and get a ranked list of the likely Tennessee animals.

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Good to Know

Questions About American Mink

Still have a question?

Call 615-357-7797

How do I know if I have a american mink?

Common signs: dead ducks or chickens near water; musky smell near coops and boat sheds; slender tracks along creek banks.

Is a american mink dangerous?

A fast predator that raids chicken coops and duck pens. When in doubt, keep your distance and call us.

What does Music City Wildlife do about a american mink?

We favor exclusion, one-way exits and deterrents so the animal leaves on its own and cannot return. Trapping is used only where it is allowed and needed. Call 615-357-7797 any hour.

Free Estimate

Tell Us What Is Going On

Describe what you see, hear or smell and we will get back to you quickly with a plan and a free estimate. For an animal in the house or any emergency, skip the form and call 615-357-7797 any hour.

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