Current Status of the Black-Footed Ferret in Wyoming

Abstract

A publicity campaign in 1973-75 yielded 145 reliable reports of black-footed ferrets (Mustela nigripes) from 1851 to 1975. Field searches failed to locate any live ferrets. Three-fourths of sightings were in June-September. About 75 percent were within the range of white-tailed prairie dogs (Cynomys leucurus) and 25 percent in the range of black-tailed prairie dogs (C. ludovicianus). Two sightings were in association with Richardson ground squirrels (Spermophilus richardsonii) and 1 with golden-mantled ground squirrels (S. lateralis). Thirty-four or 35 reports were of dead animals; remains of 23 ferrets were located in museum and private collections. Most ferrets were seen in sagebrush-grasslands. Ferret mortality was often attributed to poisoning and trapping for coyotes and prairie dogs. Behavioral and ecological comparisons are made between the black-footed ferret and its nearest relative, the Amur Siberian polecat (M. eversmanii amurensis). Extensive habitat loss from prairie dog eradication over 70 + years is the likely cause for the ferret's decline. New techniques for locating ferrets are suggested. Management recommendations include protection of key prairie dog colonies and more strict regulation of prairie dog control. J. WILDL. MANAGE. 42(1):128-134 This paper reports on a 1973-75 search for black-footed ferrets in Wyoming, compares findings to South Dakota studies and to the ferret's nearest living relative, the Amur Siberian polecat, evaluates field search techniques in Wyoming and makes management recommendations. The study was supported by the National Geographic Society, National Audubon Society, Defenders of Wildlife, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service-Office of Rare and Endangered Wildlife, National Academy of Sciences-Marsh Fund, Sigma Xi, University of Wisconsin Department of Zoology Davis Fund, Milwaukee Public Museum, and Idaho State University Department of Biology. D. Casey, W. Barmore, and J. Weaver gave valuable editorial advice. Mark Stromberg assisted in gathering field data and Gene Bakko provided unpublished ferret data. Among the many people who aided this investigation were: F. Camenzind, L. Peterson, J. Lewis, G. Titus, R. H. Denniston, J. C. Neess, C. N. Hillman, R. C. Linder, R. Nowak, R. Erickson, F. Craighead, J. Heasely, L. Turner, K. Lowhar, P. Birr, B. McMahan, F. Christensen, J. Speas, and J. Dierks. Other people too numerous to mention provided essential help.