A FISHER, also known as a FISHER CAT is most likely a part of Connecticut's natural, wildlife settings. Rare for a number of years, reforestation has brought the Fisher's status to a few thousand in this state. The Fisher is not part of the cat family nor known to eat fish, but a Mustelid, or weasel. A slender long body, bushy tail, and wedged-shaped face are the dominant features of this nocturnal mammal.
The Fishers are solitary and secretive by nature. Their habitat is heavily wooded areas with a water source. New England is ideal for these animals. They are predators, preferring rabbits, squirrels, mice and turkeys... however they will eat most anything and like to forage through garbage. Weighing around 10 pounds, Fishers are approximately 20 inches in length with an additional tail length of about 15 inches. Brownish-black in color, they can be difficult to see in the dark and are often mistaken for foxes.
Generally speaking, unless ill, we will only see these critters after dusk. They move quickly and will most likely flee from humans. Cats and small dogs allowed to roam, have been prey for the Fishers. Agile and willy, they help to keep the rodent population at bay.
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