Hello everyone, I strongly urge you to obtain a copy of the latest Fish and Game survey regarding ferrets. The survey is called: 1996-97 Nationwide Ferret Survey of State Wildlife Agencies It is available by writing to: Ron Jurek Department of Fish and Game 1416 9th st. #1266 Sacramento, CA 95814 Some of the information (naturally) is incorrect. Jurek states that ferrets are prohibited in 6 states-- CA, HI, NY, NJ, RI and KY except under special conditions. False. Ferrets are NOT prohibited in 6 states. In fact, NY and KY used to require a permit, easily obtained, but dropped the requirement in the last few years. NJ still requires a permit but in the words of one resident, they're easier to get than tickets to the high school play! We believe permits are still required in RI but are working to verify that. If required, they are also simple to obtain making the statement that ferrets are prohibited ridiculous. Ferrets are prohibited in two states and only two states no matter how much CA tries to portray it differently. You will see in the survey that there have been NO documented feral ferrets anywhere, anytime in the US. If your State representative cannot connect with the potential loss of a beloved pet for no justifiable reason, perhaps they can relate to the obscene fine that DFG hopes to impose on Fresno ferret owner Mark Johnson-- $17,000.00! This is outrageous! This from an agency that did millions of dollars in environmental damage to Lake Davis! Ferret do not, cannot, and have not harmed the environment and as domesticated animals don't even belong in the hands of a wildlife agency. Please, Californians, get one or two copies (make extras) of the survey and send it to your State Senator with a letter asking him/her to help change this ridiculous law and bring this rogue agency under some kind of control. Send the survey and a letter to your local paper as well. This absurd situation needs to see the light of day and only you can do that. Sincerely, Jeanne Carley Californians for Ferret Legalization 410 Mountain Home Road Woodside, CA 94962 [Posted in FML issue 2845]