The authorities of Patagonia National Parks have raised the alarm about the advance of the American mink, a carnivorous species native to North America that has disrupted the ecological balance in the region.
This mammal, introduced in the 1930s for the fur industry, has become a plague, affecting several native species, some of which are endangered.
American mink characteristics
The American mink is a mammal that inhabits rivers, lakes, and wetlands.
- Fur: dense and soft, ranging from dark brown to black.
- Body: elongated and flexible, with short legs and sharp claws.
- Diet: fish, crustaceans, insects, and small mammals.
- Behavior: territorial, communicating through sounds and scent marks.
Its adaptability has allowed it to spread rapidly, without natural predators in Patagonia, leading to a worrying increase in its population.
Environmental impact and danger to native species
The American mink has predatory capabilities both in aquatic and terrestrial environments, even climbing trees in search of prey.
This has caused the disappearance of entire colonies of native birds, such as the hooded grebe, an emblematic species of the region.
Alfredo Allen, Undersecretary of Planning in Bariloche, revealed in an interview with Cadena 3 that “two minks alone wiped out an entire colony of hooded grebes.”
Control campaigns and conservation strategies
To halt its expansion, National Parks has implemented ongoing control campaigns, focusing on priority areas such as breeding sites of vulnerable species.
The Wildlife referent of the North Patagonia Division, Hernán Pastore, explained that the mink invasion has been monitored in areas like Río Negro, where efforts have been intensified to prevent the extinction of local species.
Euthanasia as a last resort?
The lack of natural predators and the uncontrolled growth of the mink population have led to considering euthanasia as a control method.
Allen emphasized that, although it is a difficult decision, “humans must take responsibility for the introduction of this species and euthanize them painlessly to prevent suffering.”
The situation has reignited the debate on how to manage invasive species and their impact on the conservation of native wildlife.
An urgent environmental challenge
The presence of the American mink in Patagonia represents a serious ecological problem, requiring effective management measures to prevent an irreversible impact on the ecosystem.
Through coordinated efforts among scientists, environmental authorities, and local communities, the aim is to mitigate the damages and preserve the biodiversity of Patagonia.
Cover photo: Mongabay
