12-03-2025
American mink recovers from injury at Virginia Wildlife Center
ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) – For the first time in five years, since 2019, the Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center is caring for an American Mink.
The mink was brought to the center on February 27 with limited mobility, including one functional arm and two immobile legs. It has since been receiving round-the-clock care, including anti-inflammatories, pain medication, and laser therapy to help reduce the swelling.
Although the healing process is slow, there are signs of progress. Due to treatment, the mink is now starting to get movement back in all limbs.
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The cause behind the injuries is unknown; however, the center believes the trauma is related to a vehicle collision. The severity of the injuries is believed to be from a spinal trauma that caused swelling and pressure on the spinal cord and nerve that left the mink with temporary paralysis.
Minks are known to be solitary, nocturnal, and semi-aquatic, with a diverse diet of insects, rodents, fish, crustaceans, amphibians, and birds.
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They are great swimmers and have webbed feet, which allow them to dive up to 17 feet. They can also stay underwater for several minutes.
Their species are likely to be found in wetlands, including rivers, ponds, and streams, which is why intake at the center is rare.
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