Hello everyone, First of all thank you for the many replies I received. I am positive at this time, they were indeed Long Tailed Wiesels. I was under the impression that there were several different types. Maily meaning different colors, depending where one is located. Let me assure you they were NOT the black footed Ferrets. As of several yrs ago, none had been released in NM, since the ranchers through such a fit. I did a research paper on the black footed ferret, and talked to many people getting my information, and seen pictures of babies as well learned a bunch about the progress they were making in breeding etc... I do feel bad for the two vets that ID'd them as ferrets, and I am sure they don't feel to great about themselves at this point. This was a learning experience, I think for all involved, and the outcome even if sad for the animals sake (death), was indeed a learning experience. If any BFF's have been released in NM, they would have not done so in the east mountain area of Albuquerque, as this is getting to be a heavy populated area. Thanks again for all of your replies...I do feel lots better, since I know what they were...sometimes it just eats at you until you have the answer. I will be working with animals services more in the future, to help them gain knowledge about ferrets, and will stay in touch more as well. Hugs to all the fuzzies Mini Tafoya and her gang of 10 Plus Ferrets "R" Fun shelter and rescue Albuquerque, NM [Posted in FML issue 2516]