European polecats are part of the mustelid family and they are closely related to domestic ferrets. They have a body length between 35 and 51 cms (14 - 20 inches), a tail length between 12 and 19 cms (4.75 - 7.5 inches) and they weigh between 0.7 and 1.5 Kgs (1.5 - 3.25 lbs).

They are dark brown in colour with a paler underside and white markings around their muzzle, ears and eyes. Their bodies are long and cylindrical shaped with short legs. They have a short, blunt face, small, rounded ears and their tail is short and furry.

They are mainly active at night but during the winter they are generally less active and venture out a bit more during the day.