I have read with interest the various posts raising the points whether or
not ferrets can survive in the wild and whether or not they pose a threat
to native wild life.
 
Let me say at the outset, I am not passing a professional opinion on this
one simply because I am not qualified to do so.  However, according to
reports I have read, there are feral ferrets thriving on the Hebrides,
which are a group of islands just off the west coast of Scotland.  I see
no reason to believe that this is an isolated case and I would be much
surprised if this were so.
 
The question is, from what are these ferrets gaining their sustenance?
It would be ludicrous to suggest that they are living off anything else
other than prey species, i.e. mice, birds, rabbits etc.
 
There is one major difference between the ferrets in the UK and those in
the US.  Many UK ferrets are not neutered, in fact I would go as far as
to say that neutered ferrets are the exception to the rule.  It is only
in relatively recent years that ferrets have found a niche as pets in
this country.  Prior to this most ferrets were bred for work, i.e. for
rabbiting.
 
So I agree that escapee ferrets in the US are not going to breed
and by virtue of this fact will not reach the numbers which would
pose a significant threat to your native wildlife.  However, do not
underestimate the survival instincts of the ferret.  Winter would be a
particular taxing time for them and I doubt if many could survive a hard
winter but any ferret should be able to survive out of doors in the
spring and summer when there are plenty of young birds and animals for
them to eat.
 
Like any other predator, they will do their utmost to make sure that
their survival takes precedence over prey species.
 
George
[Posted in FML issue 4021]