The Ferret

By Terri Estes

Ferrets are small, domesticated animals in the weasel family. They have long slender bodies and tails, and short legs. Their average length is about 20 inches, and the average weight is between one and four pounds. They come in a variety of colors including white, black, brown, cinnamon and grey.

Ferrets are lively, social, affectionate animals. They are known for their endless energy, and they love to play. If properly socialized, ferrets can form strong bonds with their humans. They are intelligent animals and can learn simple tricks with positive reinforcement.

Ferrets have been domesticated for over 2,000 years. They were likely crossbred between the European polecat and some other, more social type of polecat. They were originally used to hunt and scare away rats and mice from barns and food sources. Today, they are kept as companion animals, much like dogs and cats. There are no ferrets in the wild. They have lots of wild cousins, who look very similar, but they are distinctively different species.

One such cousin is the black-footed ferret. They share the name ferret but are totally different animals. The black footed ferret’s diet consists mainly of prairie dogs. This is the rarest, most endangered mammal in the U.S. It was declared extinct in 1979, but a small population was discovered in Wyoming in 1981. A captive breeding program was launched, and soon they were reintroduced into eight western states. As of 2015, there were over 200 known living adults in the wild.

The domestic ferret’s diet is a bit different than its black footed cousin, but they are strict carnivores. Fortunately, they make quality ferret kibble that is high in proteins and fats. Their diet should also consist of some raw meat, such as chicken wings.

Ferrets are becoming quite popular these days. With proper care, they can live for 10 to 12 years, and bring lots of joy and entertainment for the whole family. But, if you want to add a ferret to your family, you may have to move to Nassau County. Ferrets are illegal to own in New York City. They are legal everywhere else in New York.