Sable can refer to two different things:
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A species of marten, a small omnivorous mammal primarily inhabiting the forest environments of Russia, from the Ural Mountains throughout Siberia, and northern Mongolia. Its habitat also borders eastern Kazakhstan, China, North Korea. Sables are known for their luxurious fur, which ranges from light to dark brown and is softer and silkier than that of American martens. They resemble pine martens in size and appearance but have more elongated heads, longer ears, and shorter tails. Sables live in burrows near riverbanks and in the thickest parts of woods. These burrows are commonly made more secure by being dug among tree roots. They are good climbers of cliffs and trees. They are primarily crepuscular, hunting during the hours of twilight, but become more active in the day during the mating season. Their dens are well hidden, and lined by grass and shed fur, but may be temporary, especially during the winter, when the animal travels more widely in search of prey. Sable fur has been a valuable commodity for centuries.
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A color that refers to black or dark brown. It is often used to describe black clothing worn in mourning. The word "sable" comes from Slavic languages and entered Western European languages through the medieval fur trade.
