Domestic Ferret

Scientific Name: Mustela putorius furo

Order: Carnivora (Carnivorous mammals)

Family: Mustelidae (badgers, otters, weasels, and relatives)

Conservation Status

About

The domestic ferrets are part of the same family as weasels, otters, skunks, badgers and mink. A common misconception is that ferrets are rodents, when in actuality they are a completely different scientific order. It is unknown when ferrets were first domesticated.

Ferrets are small, affectionate, playful and welcome human interaction. They tend to be very curious and will wiggle their way into tiny spaces. Ferrets are very social animals and enjoy company, as well as entertaining. However, they are known for their smell and will mark their territory with a distinctive burst of scent.

Find me at EPZ

Location: This animal is not on exhibit. It is part of our educational collection and may only be seen in programs inside or outside of the zoo.

Arrived at EPZ: Bob and Stuart - April 2023

Habitat & Range
Domestic ferrets are named so because they are completely domesticated. They cannot and do not exist in the wild. They are a distant relative of both the European polecat and black-footed ferret. Domestic ferrets can be found all over the world, with the exception of Antarctica.
Identification
Domestic ferrets have a long, slender body that averages 20 inches in length (including its 5 inch tail). They range in weight from 1 to 4 pounds. They typically have black, brown or white fur, small ears and a pink nose.
Diet
As obligate carnivores, their natural diet consists of whole small prey such as mice or rabbits. Since they are domesticated, a typical meal consists of prepared dry foods that are almost entirely meat. They have short digestive tracts and a fast metabolism, and therefore need to eat frequently.
Reproduction & Lifespan
Domestic ferrets reach sexual maturity by 6 months of age. During mating season, males are very aggressive to the point of killing other males. Females may have up to 3 litters per year, each consisting of 3 to 7 young. The gestation period is 42 days, and young are completely weaned at 2 months. Domestic ferrets live an average of 8 years.
Fantastic Fact
When excited, domestic ferrets perform a routine characterized by a series of sideways hops and bumping into objects. It is not an aggressive behavior, but rather an invitation for play, which may be accompanied by a chuckling noise referred to as dooking.

Domestic Ferret

Conservation Status

About

Find me at EPZ

Habitat & Range

Identification

Diet

Reproduction & Lifespan

Fantastic Fact