The European polecat (Mustela putorius) is found throughout Europe and lives in a variety of habitats such as forests, grasslands, and wetlands. It is primarily nocturnal and solitary, preying mainly on rabbits, rodents, and birds, but also consuming frogs, snakes, insects, and fruits. There is sexual dimorphism in body length and weight, and its fur darkens in winter and lightens in summer. Reproduction is seasonal; gestation lasts 40–43 days and typically about seven young are born. The species is numerous and classified as Least Concern.