Massachusetts Wildlife Rehabilitator Practice Exam

Which of the following animals is classified as a carnivore?

1. Opossum

2. Raccoon

3. Long-tailed weasel

4. Deer

The correct answer is: Long-tailed weasel

The long-tailed weasel is classified as a carnivore because its diet primarily consists of small mammals, birds, and other animal-based foods. Members of the weasel family, known for their slender bodies and agile hunting skills, are adept hunters and have adaptations that make them effective predators. Their sharp teeth and claws aid in capturing and consuming prey, aligning them with typical carnivorous behavior. Opossums and raccoons, while they may consume some animal matter, have omnivorous diets that also include fruits, vegetables, and various plant materials. Deer, on the other hand, are strictly herbivorous, feeding primarily on leaves, grasses, and other plant matter, making them unsuitable for the classification of carnivore. Understanding these dietary habits helps clarify the classification of these animals in terms of their feeding strategies and ecological roles.