Hearing in Mammals: The Least Weasel

Abstract

Audiograms were obtained for two least weasels (Mustela nivalis) using behavioral methods. The hearing range of the least weasel for intensities of 60 dB SPL extends from 51 Hz to 60.5 kHz with a region of best hearing extending from 1 kHz to 16 kHz. The least weasel appears to be similar in its hearing to other members of the order Carnivora for which data are available. The high-frequency hearing ability of the least weasel lends additional support to the relationship between functional interaural distance and high-frequency hearing, whereas its sensitivity to low frequencies in the absence of obvious morphological specialization of the middle ear makes the least weasel unusual among small mammals.