We are thrilled to share the incredible success story of an American Mink, who became affectionately known to our rehabilitation team as “Stinky Minky!” for the species’ strong, musky odor.

This resilient little guy came to Dane County Humane Society’s (DCHS’s) Wildlife Center from Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, in December 2024 after being hit by a car. When he arrived, the mink was hungry, bruised, and — in the best way to describe him — down in the dumps. After spending four days in the inexperienced care of his well-meaning finders, he was finally brought to DCHS’s Wildlife Center for the appropriate, specialized care he needed from our licensed wildlife rehabilitators.

Initially, his prognosis looked grim. He was severely dehydrated and likely suffering from internal trauma, and his deep state of depression had our team fearing if he would make it during those first few critical days. Our veterinary team from the UW Zoo and Wildlife Medicine Program ran multiple diagnostic tests to rule out diseases such as distemper virus, avian flu, and COVID-19.

Fortunately, test results for these illnesses were all negative, suggesting his lethargy instead came from a combination of his severe dehydration, malnutrition, and internal injuries.
With expert medical support and treatment from our Wildlife Center’s team of licensed rehabilitators, including some much-needed rehydration and treatment for his internal injuries, this mink defied the odds and began recovering. By the end of his first day, he was already perking up, and by the next evening, he was zooming around his cage with excitement!

After nearly five weeks, the mink made a full recovery, thanks to advice from local rehabilitator and Mustelid expert, Peggy Popp, and the dedicated team at DCHS’s Wildlife Center. Minks are rarely admitted to our Wildlife Center, so we were glad to save this special little carnivore. His quirky personality and adorable antics even earned him the prestigious title of Patient of the Month in January!

Fun fact — did you know minks purr when they’re happy? Well, let’s just say Stinky Minky was purring all the way to his release back to the wild!

Thank you to everyone who played a part in his journey. Here’s to more success stories and second chances for Wisconsin’s incredible wildlife!

If you think you’ve found a sick, injured, or orphaned wild animal, please contact our Wildlife Center by emailing [email protected] or texting (608) 960-8328.

Jessica Robinson is a 2025 Werndli Apprentice