Wild Ferrets: The Black Footed Ferret

Most people are familiar with the domestic ferret. They see him in their friend’s homes, at the pet stores, and on television. However, there were once a great deal of wild ferrets in the United States. Many people outside of Wyoming go their who lives without ever laying eyes on a Black Footed Ferret, either in person or in pictures. Unfortunately, the wild ferret, the Black Footed Ferret has become an endangered species. But thanks to the help of conservationists, the Black Footed Ferret is making a comeback in the American West.

The Black Footed Ferret lives in the praries of Wyoming. However, he has faced a recent struggle for survival, due to loss of habitat, disease, and toxins. When the number of Black Footed Ferrets dropped to 18, the surviving ferrets were taken into captivity and placed into breeding programs. Through the efforts of biologists, conservationists, zoos, and more, the Black Footed Ferret has been reintroduced to his natural habitat. Luckily, the breed is starting to thrive in the wild again.

The Black Footed Ferret is much different in coloring than the domestic ferret. He has a sandy yellow body that allows him to blend in with his prarie environment. Additionally, he has the characteristic black paws that give him his name. The Black Footed Ferret also wears a black mask around his eyes, which has become another one of his trademark characteristics. The Black Footed Ferret typically grows to be 18 inches long. However, his long dail adds another 6 inches to his overall length. He weighs roughly two pounds.

The diet of the Black Footed Ferret consists mostly of prarie dogs. However, he will also eat other small mammals and birds. Additionally, the Black Footed Ferret will snack on insects when the opportunity arises.

If you happen to come across anyone attempting to keep Black Footed Ferrets as pets, or sell them off as domestic ferrets, contact your authorities immediately. The Black Footed Ferret can only regain his place in the western United States with the help of animal, ecology, and ferret lovers everywhere.