The fisher (Martes pennanti) is a marten, living in North America. Despite its name, it seldom eats fish. Its name is believed to be derived from the French "fichet", which is the name for a pelt of the European polecat. They are solitary hunters. Interesting is that they are the only known predator to constently hunt porcupines and were reintroduced in some parts of North America to control the population of porcupines in the area. As a result, cats and dogs were also killed in the area by Fishers. They have a remarkable call, that sounds like a child screaming.
Which zoos have them?
Minnesota Zoo (United States)The Fisher is listed as Least Concern (LR/lc), lowest risk. Does not qualify for a more at risk category. Widespread and abundant taxa are included in this category, on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
Some facts about the
Fisher
Adult weight : 3.175 kg (6.985 lbs)
Maximum longevity : 14 years
Female maturity :365 days
Male maturity : 365 days
Gestation : 45 days
Weaning : 66 days
Litter size : 3
Litters per year : 1
Interval between litters : 365 days
Weight at birth : 0.035 kg (0.077 lbs)
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