THE FISHER (Martes Pennanti) The Fisher, also known as the Fishercat, blackcat, wejack or pekan is one of the largest members of the weasel family. It averages in size from 6 to 12 pounds, although males can grow to as much as 20 pounds. Their ears are pointier, and their facial features more like that of a canine, than those of the smaller members of the Mustelidae or weasel family. They were almost made extinct by extensive trapping for pelts in the 17th and 18th centuries; also due to their habitat being changed or destroyed by the lumber industry and forest fires. Their comeback is largely due to trapping restrictions imposed in Canada and the U.S. in the 1930’s. For example, in the state of Michigan, trapping season is only 10 days out of the year, and the limit set for fishers is 3 per person. They are found throughout Canada, and Alaska, south of the tree line. In the continental U.S.A., the Fisher is found on the West Coast as far south as Northern California, and eastward to Utah in the Rocky Mountains. It also makes its home in New England and parts of New York State. Males cover a range of 8 to 15 miles in diameter. Although they had previously been thought to be an animal only found in heavily forested areas, they have in recent years expanded their habitat to include some wooded suburban neighborhoods. They prefer wooded areas with coniferous trees and lots of ground cover, such as fallen trees, and hollowed out logs. However, this is not to mean that they are not found in deciduous forests as well. Fishers are able to climb trees and are double-jointed, which allows them to descend from trees head first. Females will often nest in trees, whereas the male of the species usually takes up residence in crevices, logs or abandoned beaver lodges. The male moves his residence quite often, and seldom returns to the same place for shelter. It is unusual to see males and females traveling together, with the exception of their very brief mating season in April. Their main sources of food are squirrels, rabbits, rodents, birds (both wild and domesticated), domestic cats, nuts and berries.They also can be found feeding on large mammals which have been left for dead either due to “road kill” or by another predator. One thing that they will prey on which is unique is the porcupine. The fisher is the only animal other than the mountain lion that will take on this creature. Although not extensively researched, it is thought that they have some natural immunity to severe infection from porcupine quills. They are the same as other members of the weasel family in the fact that they are known for “surplus” killing. Meaning that they are known to kill just for the blood sport, and because the prey was readily accessible. They seldom cache the excess for future consumption. There is conflicting information on time of the day they are most active. Some say they are nocturnal, others say that males are active in early daylight, while females are active in the evening. Perhaps this is an indication of how little really is known about this animal. References for this article: Information found in this has been compiled from the following sources The Department of Natural Resources for the states of Michigan and Minnesota. The Ministry of Natural Resources for the Province of Ontario Web Article by: E. Herdsman, Mt. Allison University Tracking and the Art of Seeing. Author Paul Rezendes, Camden House Publishing, 1992 Article By Mrs. Egghead: Written for use on The Gander Gab Sites. All rights are reserved, for further information or permissions of use you may contact The Gander Gab sites Page Designs By Mama Gozzard, All rights Reserved ©Copyright 2002 Html created by ΞΞρฐЎčĦőฐiฐΞΞ Glitter: ErinsBackgroundWebsetBoutique