Scientists agree with this view: every single feature of this mammal, from its slender body to its sharp claws and super-fast running speed, makes it the perfect little predator despite its size.

Most of a weasel’s time awake is spent hunting and eating. Since their bodies don’t store fat, they need a constant supply of food to provide enough energy.

In fact, the least weasel eats around 40-60 per cent of its body weight every day, feasting on a diet of small rodents like mice, hamsters and gerbils, although they are partial to the occasional fish.