Types of Ferrets

There are two types of ferrets found in North America. You have the domesticated one called the Mustela putorious and the wild one called the mustela nigripes. Both of which are closely related to the weasel family. One misconception about ferrets is that they are often referred to as rodents.

The domesticated ferret has been treated as a pet for more than a thousand years. They are no longer suited for life in the wild and were used to kill rats or assist the hunter in searching for rabbits hiding in the burrows. These days, they are simply kept as pets while some are used by institutions for scientific research. One example is to produce vaccines for farm raised mink.

This type of ferret descended from the European polecat. It comes in different coat colors and patterns but this has not changed much due to selective breeding. You might see some domesticated ferrets that are albino in color with yellowish white fur, pink eyes, nose and claws.

The difference between the domesticated ferret and the Polecat is that the latter is slightly smaller.  They are also polygamous and usually produce one to two offspring, about six to seven litters per young a year over a 42 day gestation period. In terms of gender, the male is much longer and heavier than the female.

The domesticated ferret is very popular because it is friendly, intelligent, playful and sociable. You can adopt one from a shelter or buy one from a breeder and then enjoy its company for many years to come.

The wild ferret is bigger than the domesticated version. One example is the black footed ferret that is now classified as an endangered species.

The black footed ferret has a yellowish buff coat that becomes brown on the top of the head and along the back. Its feet and legs are black and you might mistake it for a raccoon. The males are bigger than the females and this creature is nocturnal.

Domesticated ferrets eat poultry and meat products that are given by their owners. Wild ferrets have to hunt for food and prey on prairie dogs.

Now that you know the two basic types of ferrets, you won’t have a hard time identifying them. If you want to own a ferret, you will have to settle for the domesticated type. You should be ready to spend your time and your money so it will be able to live for 8 years or more. Some of the things you will need to buy are a cage and food.

You will also need to have the ferret vaccinated annually as this is required by law in most states to prevent the spread of rabies.

Tagged with: Black-footed Ferret • Endangered species • Ferret • Pet

Filed under: ferret facts

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