The Japanese least weasel
The Japanese least weasel is the smallest carnivore, measuring eight to twenty-three centimeters [3-9 in] in body length, with a tail five to seven centimeters long. It feeds on small rodents such as rats and voles, using its slim body to travel through tunnels leading to the burrows of its prey. It takes over the nests of its prey and keeps several nests at a time. Sometimes it will store enough food in its nest to last for several days. The Japanese least weasel can hunt at any time and does not need to hibernate. In cold weather, it keeps warm with the coats of its prey.