Fisher

Scientific Name

Pekania pennanti

Description

Fishers are large members of the weasel family, have a weasel-like physique with a long body, short legs, long bushy tail, pointed nose, and short round ears. Their long fur ranges from brown to nearly black and they often have lighter-colored fur around the face and neck.

Tracks

Front/Rear– 2" L, 2-1/2" W Walking stride: 7" - 11-1/2"

Total Length

35-47 inches

Weight

5-12 pounds

Habitat

Fishers prefer forested habitats and in North Dakota are found primarily along wooded riparian streams in the eastern third of the state. Fishers spend most of their time on the ground, but are adept at climbing trees and are known to den in hollow trees and logs.

Breeding Season

March-May. Fertilized egg then delays implantation for 10-11 months.

Gestation Period

30 days

Litter Size

1-6 (average 3)

Social Aspects

Solitary, except when breeding or rearing young.

Status

Fishers are primarily distributed in the eastern third of the state, but may be found elsewhere. There is a limited trapping season.

Food Habits

Fishers are carnivorous and prey on small- to medium-sized mammals, including rabbits, squirrels, mice, voles and shrews. They also eat birds and carrion. Fishers are one of the few effective predators of porcupines.

Fun Facts

Unlike their common name suggests, fishers do not commonly eat fish nor do they live in water. Additionally, female fishers mate soon after they give birth to a litter, after which the fertilized egg will delay implantation until 30 days before giving birth the following year. Therefore, female fishers are in a constant state of pregnancy.