Olympic Mascots Tina and Milo Spark Climate Change Debate

• The Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 mascots are stoats, a weasel-like animal at risk due to climate change.
• Tina (white stoat) represents the Olympics, named after Cortina d’Ampezzo; Milo (darker-furred, one paw missing) represents the Paralympics, named after Milan.
• Stoats' fur changes from brown to white in winter for camouflage, but reduced snow leaves them vulnerable to predators.
• Researchers like Marco Granata believe organizers missed an opportunity to educate the public about real stoats and climate change implications.
• Despite organizers' focus on Italian spirit, the mascots subtly highlight the rapid changes in mountain environments and wildlife.