I was just wondering if anyone has done any research into the ban on
ferrets in New Zealand.  I know that ferrets, stoats, and ermine ( I
Think) were introduced in New Zealand a hundred or so years ago to
control rabbit/rodent populations, then were banned a few years ago
in an attempt for the govt. to look like they were trying to conserve
wildlife.  I do not know much more.
 
Are there *really* wild businesses of ferrets (heehee) out in the wilds
of NZ eating lots of flightless birds/bird eggs?  It seems to me that
dogs and cats are bigger threats to ANY population of birds.  Ferrets and
their relations seem like they would not be on the top of any food chain
where they are dogs or cats.  And anywhere there are humans, there are
stray dogs and cats.  I have read that: "Wild cats, ferrets and stoats
often kill chicks and take eggs.  Adult penguins all too often fall
victim to dogs." (This is in relation to penguin species; most adult
penguins are larger than ferrets and have big beaks)  So why is there no
ban on dogs or cats?!  It seems our fuzzy friends are indeed a scapegoat.
They have picked out the pet that is the least popular.  People always
want to sacrifice...other people('s ferrets).  I can imagine the outcry
if all non-native species were banned.  Which is what should happen.
 
I am not a New Zealander, but this is just another example of ferrets
being blamed wholly for things that are not entirely their fault.  I
honestly have this feeling that the stoats and ermine are doing more
predation than domesticated pet ferrets.  But I would really like to
know if anyone has done any real research into this.  If this is not
just some burecratic play to appease voters who want their cats and
penguins, too...please set me straight.
 
Thanks.
[Posted in FML issue 5140]