Mink or pole cat ?

[ForestPaul]

We found this young fellow hanging round the house when we got home today. Didn't seem too scared of us, I assume it's a juvenile. Is it a mink or a pole cat ?
We're in the middle of a mixed conifer/deciduous forest but also near a river.

[Dogghound]

Its an American Mink, it is probably best you report it. I doubt you could age it from a photo. Females can be very small.

[glsammy]

A couple of months ago I saw a mink catching rabbits at Clumber Park. I reported it and they told me they'd now given up trying to keep them out of the park. I was surprised at this, but I wonder if that's the general situation?

[ForestPaul]

Originally Posted by Dogghound

Its an American Mink, it is probably best you report it. I doubt you could age it from a photo. Females can be very small.

That was quick DH. Thanks for the bad news. We're above the Afon Cothi, which is (was) a renowned salmon and sewin river. I'll pass this on the the local angling association and the EA.
Maybe not the best forum to ask on, but should I be after it with the shotgun?
When I first saw it, it was practically coming through the back door; it seemed quite fearless, which was why I thought it might be a juvenile.

[Dogghound]

Mink are very confident animals. Its best to let the E.A or local gamekeeper sort it out. Usually trapped then shot, I would hate you to shoot an actual polecat or otter by mistake.