The term “black and white mink” refers to specific color variations of the American mink, Neogale vison, rather than a distinct species. These striking coat patterns result from selective breeding efforts within fur farming, where genetic mutations have been cultivated over many generations. While wild American mink exhibit a dark brown coloration, human intervention has led to a wide spectrum of hues, including the black and white combinations.
Defining the “Black and White” Mink
The “black and white mink” is a color morph of the American mink, Neogale vison, developed through controlled breeding programs in fur farms. Over more than a century of selective breeding, farmers have produced over 100 distinct color types, including pure white and almost black variants. These color patterns arise from specific gene mutations that influence the production and distribution of melanin pigments, eumelanin for black and pheomelanin for lighter colors. Genes like TYR, TYRP1, and TYRP2 play a role in determining these coat colors, with their activity being most pronounced in young mink.
Physical Traits and Characteristics
The physical appearance of “black and white” mink can vary, with distinct patterns and fur qualities. Some individuals are almost entirely white, with a subtle pearl-like glow due to transparent eumelanosomes and a trace of pheomelanin, while others are a deep, rich black, resulting from increased eumelanin production. The fur itself is dense and soft, with an overlay of dark, glossy guard hairs that provide a sleek appearance. Farmed mink are larger than their wild counterparts, a result of generations of selective breeding for increased size and fur yield. A typical adult male farmed mink can weigh up to 3.2 kg (7 lb 1 oz) and measure about 60 cm (23.5 in) in length, excluding the tail.
Habitat and Behavior
The American mink, from which “black and white” variations originate, is a semi-aquatic carnivore native to North America, inhabiting forested areas near various water sources like rivers, streams, lakes, ponds, and marshes. Their diet is diverse, consisting of small mammals such as muskrats, rabbits, and mice, as well as fish, birds, and amphibians. Mink are solitary animals, with males maintaining larger, exclusive territories. They are skilled hunters both on land and in water, capable of diving up to 5 meters (16 feet) and swimming effectively. While farmed mink are larger and tamer due to domestication, they retain many innate behaviors, such as their motivation to swim and hunt, even in captive environments.