Hi Fellow Ferret Fanciers!
 
I have become aware of a terrible problem in Newfoundland (Canada)!  The
Newfoundland Pine Marten has been on the threatened species list since 1986
(800 animals) and in 1996 was declared an ENDANGERED SPECIES (300 animals
left!!!).  The causes are loss of habitat due to logging, hydroelectric
plants and the poor things being accidently caught in trappers snares.  (It
has been illegal to trap Martens for some time.) Now, I won't get into the
issue of snares, here - I'd quickly run over my line limit for this post!
Suffice it to say that, being vegetarian myself, and choosing, as much as
possible, not to wear leather, I am adamantly opposed to fur-trapping and
the wearing of fur.  We all know it looks much better on the animals, don't
we?!  (Not to mention the inhumane nature of snares!!)
 
Anyway, the Pine Marten is a member of the weasel family (like our very own
fuzzies!), is about the size of a housecat, is largely arboreal (lives in
trees alot) and is one of the cutest critters you've ever seen!  (Sorry, got
carried away with that list bit!  *grin*) You can read more about
Newfoundland Pine Martens at: http:www//:wwfcanada.org/places/nf.html or
http://mf.ncr.forestry.ca/cd/026.htm (e-mail me for more addresses)
 
This sweet wild fuzzie needs your help!  Currently, the last known major
habitat of the Pine Marten is in grave danger.  Abitibi-Price; in "need" of
a minuscule amount of electirical power is prepared to destroy Star Lake and
surrounding area by setting up a hydroelectric project.  The energy can
easily be obtained from other sources.  This will not only send the Marten
into extinction but will endanger many exotic & unusual species of fish and
severly affect Caribou migration.
 
YOU CAN HELP!  by writing to Government officials.  Yes, this is happening
in Canada but I'm sure letters from animal enthusiasts in the U.S.  and
other countries will make a difference.  Here are some addresses:
 
The Right Honorable Jean Cretien
Prine Minister of Canada
Langevin Block, 80 Wellington St.
Ottawa, ON  K1A 0A2
 
The Honorable Sergio Marchi
Minister of the Environment
Terrasse de La Chaudiere
28th Floor, 10 Wellington St.
Hull, Quebec   K1A 0H3
 
The Honorable Brian Tobin
Premier, Newfoundland & Labrador
P.O. Box 8700, Stn. A
St. John's, NF  A1C 5X4
 
If you'd like a sample letter or more info, please don't hesitate to e-mail
me directly.  There are less than 300 Martens left in Newfoundland (they are
one of only 14 species indigenous to this island province) and they are
diminishing at the rate of one per week.  When you think about that in terms
of losing one of your own dear ferrets, the issue becomes luminously clear.
We've got to do something!
 
Sincerest of thanks for the opportunity to give voice to this important
issue!
 
Dooks to All,
Andrea
 
And warm fuzzy nosenibbles from Oliver, who is deeply concerned over the
plight of his wild tree-loving cousin.
 
[Moderator's note: This never would have made it in here, but they are
mustelids, so I guess it can stay this once.  BIG]
[Posted in FML issue 1729]