23 ~Black-Footed Ferret~

More about 23 ~Black-Footed Ferret~

**Black-Footed Ferret - Mustela nigripes (North America) - once near-extinct, intensive recovery ongoing.

Main threats/note: Dependent on prairie dog populations and habitat; disease (sylvatic plague) still a major challenge.

Scientific name: Mustela nigripes

Status: Once near-extinct; recovery through captive-breeding (still dependent on conservation).

Lifespan: ~3-5 years wild; longer in captivity.

Reproduction: Gestation ≈ 42-45 days.

Diet: Prairie dogs (specialist predator).

Range: North American shortgrass prairie (reintroduction sites).

Size / weight: ~35-50 cm body; 700-1,600 g.

2025 September 21