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Ferrets also called FITCHET, either of two mammals belonging to the genus Mustela of the weasel family (Mustelidae). The common ferret (M. putorius furo) is a domesticated form of the European polecat
(q.v.), which it resembles in size and habits and with which it interbreeds. The common ferret differs from the polecat in the colour of its fur, which is usually yellowish white, and of its eyes, which are pinkish
red. Some common ferrets have brown-coloured coats, however. The common ferret is also slightly smaller than the polecat, averaging 51 cm (20 inches) in length, including the 13-centimetre (5-inch) tail,
and weighing about 1 kg (2 pounds). The female ferret bears two broods of six or seven young each year. Domesticated ferrets have become so dependent upon humans that they cannot survive without care
and if lost often die within a few days. Because common ferrets are subject to foot rot, their cages must be kept scrupulously clean. The animals subsist on a diet of water and meat that is similar to that
given the domestic cat. Ferreting, the use of the ferret in driving rabbits, rats, and other vermin from their underground burrows, has been practiced since Roman times in Europe and even longer in
Asia. The ferret's long, lithe body, short limbs, and aggressive hunting temperament made it ideal for this function. The black-footed ferret (M. nigripes) of the North American plains was so named
by early American settlers because it resembled the domesticated ferrets of Europe. The black-footed ferret does resemble the common ferret in general body colouring but has a black mask across the
eyes and brownish black markings on the feet and tail tip. Its adult weight averages 0.7 kg (1.5 pounds). Its body length is 38-46 cm (15-18 inches), and its tail length is 11-15 cm (4-6 inches). Since the
prairie dog, its main source of food, has almost disappeared, the black-footed ferret likewise faces a drastically diminished habitat. The Red Data Book lists it as an endangered species.
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