Croose, E. et al. (2021) Assessing the detectability of the Irish stoat Mustela erminea hibernica using two camera trap‑based survey methods

The Irish stoat M. erminea hibernica is a subspecies endemic to Ireland and the Isle of Man but, despite being widespread in Ireland, no information exists on its population status due to the difficulty of detection. This study compared the efficacy of two camera trap methods (the Mostela, a modified camera trapping device, and an external camera trap outside the Mostela) to detect Irish stoats in counties Mayo and Galway, Republic of Ireland. It also evaluates the potential applicability of both methods for future work to assess the population and conservation status of this little-studied species.

Photo: Irish stoat ©Carrie Crowley (Crossing the Line Films)

Croose, E. & Carter, S.P. (2019). A pilot study of a novel method to monitor weasels (Mustela nivalis) and stoats (M. erminea) in Britain

In this paper, we present the results of a pilot study to trial the efficacy of a novel method for detecting the distribution of weasels and stoats in Britain, and we discuss its potential application for wide-scale monitoring.

Sainsbury, K. et al. (2019). Recent history, current status, conservation and management of native mammalian carnivore species in Great Britain

This paper compares and contrasts the recent history and population status of Britain’s native mammalian carnivore species from the 1960s to 2017.

Photo: ©Frank Greenaway

A guide to identifying the small mustelids of Britain and Ireland

The small mustelids are characterised by their long thin body shape, which enables them to follow their prey down small tunnels and burrows. However, because of their similar body shape they can be difficult to distinguish from each other. This guide helps with the identification of the mustelid family.

Quick-start guide to the identification of small mustelids

This ‘quick-start’ guide shows the distinguishing features of members of the small mustelid family in Britain and Ireland, which includes the otter, pine marten, polecat, polecat-ferret, mink, stoat and weasel. It also shows common small mustelid tracks and signs.

The Irish Stoat

The most recent study of this elusive mammal was conducted in County Galway three years ago. This short leaflet presents the results of this survey, as well as some additional information on one of Ireland’s oldest residents.

McAney, K. (2010) A pilot study to test the use of hair tubes to detect the Irish stoat along hedgerows in County Galway.

In Ireland the Irish stoat is considered to be a near-endemic subspecies, with >90% of the global population estimated to occur in the country. This study involved laying plastic baited hair tubes, 10 per 200 metres at 20m intervals, along hedgerows in the bottom left 1km² of 10km grid squares across County Galway.