Mink

I have found this critter's tracks on the snow-covered ice of the creek.  It's a member of the weasel family.  From a couple of years ago some grainy infrared images taken with a trail camera.   And from last week a nice daytime photo of Mustela vison.  A mink.

click on image to enlarge

Nocturnal and diurnal this critter may be out and about hunting its prey (they're carnivores).  It's also mating season - so perhaps it out looking to get lucky.

Of all the weasels the mink happens to be the most aquatic.  I'd be willing to bet that it's burrow might be in the vicinity of the creek or the pond.