As springtime comes to North America, thousands of baby weasels are born in underground dens, hollow logs and other hideaways. Each nest will have from three to ten or more, so tiny that two dozen altogether would scarcely weigh a pound.
The Creator has arranged their birth between winter and summer so they can learn to care for themselves during the warm days that follow. Before they can be independent they need the care of both parents, for it will be about a month before their eyes open. During this time the mother stays close by and nurses them. Then for another month both parents bring solid food and begin taking them outside to teach them how to survive in a harsh world. When they are about four months old the parents' work is done and the little weasels are on their own.
There are many varieties of weasels throughout the world, inhabiting forests, meadows and grasslands. All have beautiful fur, but their nice looks conceal a fierce nature, making them a threat to small rodents and birds. Actually they are considered "cousins" of mink, otters and skunks and are provided with musk glands that spray an awful-smelling liquid, even worse than that of skunks.
Weasels are always on the go and full of curiosity, bounding over the ground with snarls, hisses and fearsome noises as they search for prey, often squeezing into burrows when their noses tell them there's a tempting meal down there. Although they are small enough to hold in a man's hand, they are not afraid bf larger creatures, some going after marmots, woodchucks and even rabbits—all much larger than themselves. One of their worst offenses is breaking into chicken coops and killing chickens which, of course, makes them unpopular with many farmers.
But in spite of these practices they are a delightful example of the wonders of God's creation with their pretty coloring, bright eyes, large ears and black noses. Because of the quality of their fur, people hunt them, especially in the winter when their fur is thick and bright. Most of them change color in the different seasons, particularly those living in the far north. These are an attractive brown in summer but turn pure white in winter—a provision of the Creator, camouflaging them from their enemies.
The verse at the opening of this article reminds us that God is always aware of all His creatures. We may be sure that if weasels knew this they would thank Him for such wonderful care. But God did not make us like weasels—we can read God's Word, the Bible, and know His special care over us. Everyone is happy who can agree with the words of Psa. 33:2121For our heart shall rejoice in him, because we have trusted in his holy name. (Psalm 33:21), "For our heart shall rejoice in Him, because we have trusted in His holy name." Is that trust and happiness yours?