Gordon, you may be dealing with a mink, and not a fertie. Ferrets will usually approach a human--minks do NOT!! They usually run, & avoid humans. They're mean, if cornered. Minks usually are of solid color--no creamy undercoat, no mask. Just solid black or brown--sometimes with a white spot just under the chin. They usually hang around water--they love the water! A couple years ago, we were called to a birthday party to rescue a "ferret" who had fallen into a window well, & was trapped. He was jet black, and absolutely beautiful--but he was a mink, not a ferret!! Good thing the 10 year olds at the pool party hadn't reached down into that window well to try & pet him, or he'd have shredded their arms!! LOL. We called animal control for assistance (they have a loop). He was quickly captured, and released down by the river, in his own territory. What a cutie he was----about the size of a 16 week old ferret---but already hissing & poofing, & showing teeth!!! We were called to rescue an injured "ferret" in someone's barn, a few years back, too. The farmer's wife said its leg appeared injured. There was blood, and the animal was VERY defensive & aggressive!! HISSING at her!!! She said "He must be hurt very badly, because he won't let me come NEAR him!" I asked her some questions, and all the answers pointed at mink, not ferret. Our suspicions were confirmed. USUALLY--a ferret--even if it is injured, will seek out a human for help. A wild mink wants you to STAY AWAY!!!! If you corner it, it will HURT you!!! When I began this email, I planned to send it to you, off list. However, maybe I should post it. This time of year, any ferret lover could come upon a loose "ferret" that might not really BE a ferret! Just be careful. Love, Zoo [Posted in FML 6012]