By Nanna M. Andersen | Published: 21.08.20 | Edited: 02.07.23 In this post, we will discuss how a breeder can identify a Mock Mink, also known as American Mink or Lilac, from day one. Throughout this blog, we will refer to this variety as Mock Mink. The method of predicting Mock Mink works best if your line does not carrying Am Blue, Red Eye Dilution or C locus because these varieties may trick your eyes. In the picture to the right, you can see two pinkies that are 1 day old. The one on the left is Black, and the one on the right is Mock Mink. At this age, it is very easy to identify Mock Mink because there is no fur or skin pigment to obscure the eye color. As the skin pigment develops, it becomes harder to identify Mock Mink pups. I recommend checking the pups and documenting them with pictures between 1-4 days of age. Some may assume that Mock Mink rats will have red or ruby eyes when they open, but this is not the case for most Mock Minks. When their eyes open, they will appear black, just like their black-eyed siblings. A few breeders have reported that their Mock Mink rats may have a slight red hue in bright lights, but I haven't been able to confirm this observation. The picture to the left shows the same pinkies at 4 days old. Pigment has started to develop, and at this point, it may become harder to spot the difference in eye color because the skin pigment changes around the eye. If you are expecting Merle, dark spots will start to appear as soon as the fur starts to come in. The remaining fur will be a light cocoa color. Is this method foolproof? Unfortunately, I cannot provide that guarantee. This evidence is based on my own research and experience working with Mock Mink rats. Lastly, I want to share a picture of an adult Mock Mink buck. Although he has a fair amount of silvering, which is considered a fault in shows, his color has darkened with age, and this is the color I aim for when breeding Mock Mink: a warm brown, not too dark. I hope you have found this post helpful and educational. Thank you for reading!
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