• A European collaborative network on small mustelid research

A European collaborative network on small mustelid research

Small mustelids, such as weasel Mustela nivalis and stoat Mustela erminea, are important specialist predators whose populations are suspected to be declining across Europe. Despite their ecological significance, these species have remained relatively understudied and many questions regarding their ecology and conservation remain unanswered.

Research
Protection
Development

Collaboration on small mustelid research

In June 2025, a group of European researchers convened at the first ‘European Small Mustelid Meeting’ to evaluate the current state of small mustelid research and delineate future priorities. We concluded the meeting with the foundation of the European Weasel Gang (EWG), a European collaborative network for researchers with current research projects on weasels and stoats, which is open to new members.

A gang of weasels

/ɡaŋ ɒv ˈwiːzlz/
noun phrase

1. A group of weasels that are working together to achieve a common goal.
Example: The gang of weasels somehow avoided every camera, as if they’d read the research proposal and decided to mess with it on purpose.

2. (figurative) A group of people working together toward a common—often devious, clever, or unusually specific—goal.
Example: A gang of weasels held secret meetings to promote public appreciation for small mustelids.

How We Collaborate. Discover how researchers and enthusiasts unite to advance the study and protection of Europe’s small mustelids.

Step One: Join the EWG

Begin by connecting with the European Weasel Gang to share insights and data on weasels and stoats across Europe.

Step Two: Share Research

Contribute your findings and collaborate on studies to deepen collective understanding of small mustelid ecology.

Step Three: Promote Conservation

Work together to develop strategies that protect and preserve small mustelid populations effectively.