The American mink is a small, semi-aquatic mammal native to North America. It has a slender body, short legs, and a long, bushy tail. Typically, its fur is dark brown, but it can also be found in various color mutations. American minks are known for their agility and are often found near rivers, lakes, and marshes, where they hunt for fish, small mammals, and birds. These animals are part of the Mustelidae family, which also includes weasels, otters, and ferrets. American minks are solitary creatures and are primarily active during dawn and dusk. They play a significant role in their ecosystem by controlling populations of their prey.