A sable is a species of marten, a small carnivorous mammal scientifically known as Martes zibellina. It primarily inhabits dense forest environments across Russia, Siberia, northern Mongolia, and bordering regions such as eastern Kazakhstan, China, North Korea, and Hokkaido, Japan. Sables are notable for their luxurious fur, which ranges from light to dark brown, sometimes almost black, and is highly prized in the fur trade. The fur is soft, silky, and considered one of the finest natural furs. Physically, sables are small omnivorous mammals with elongated heads, large ears, and shorter tails compared to related martens. They are expert climbers and hunters, relying on sound and scent to find prey. Sables are solitary and territorial animals, typically thriving in taiga and dense forests. The name "sable" comes from Slavic origins and entered European languages through medieval fur trade routes. Besides referring to the animal itself, "sable" also describes a black or dark brown color in heraldry and is used for some black-furred domestic animals. In summary, a sable is a small forest-dwelling mammal known both for its role in the ecosystem and its highly valued fur.