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Fisher (Martes pennants

Fisher are large dark brown to black weasel-like animals. They resemble a large, short-legged, black cat or a very large, heavy dark mink. The guard hairs are frequently light-tipped, giving the animal a frosted appearance. Males reach lengths of more than 40" with about 14" of that length being a dark-tipped bushy tail. Large males may weigh as much as 13 Ibs. but females seldom reach 61/2 Ibs. in weight. Small fisher may be separated from large marten (Martes americana) by the absence of a buff throat patch.

Reproduction

Fisher produce single litters of 1 to 5 young in late March or early April. They breed immediately after having their young, but they have delayed implantation like several other members of the weasel family. The young remain with the female through the summer.

Fisher dens are usually in hollow trees with a fairly large, high opening. At times rock crevices may also be used. Fisher frequently have several dens in their territory.

Habitat

The fisher habitat is varied but they seem to prefer heavily forested regions. Range and habitats are currently being defined more precisely.

Habits

Fisher are extremely agile and active predators. Very much at home in trees, they prey upon red squirrels and rarely even upon pine marten and raccoon. Fisher are one of the few predators that regularly prey upon porcupine. They also feed upon berries, nuts, mice, birds, and other vertebrates. When abundant food is located, such as a dead deer, fisher will den nearby until the supply is gone.

These tireless hunters range over a large area, traveling at any time of day or night. Individual animals use well-defined hunting trails quite frequently. They are solitary except during the breeding season and when young are with the females. The fisher gives off a foul musk when disturbed.

Trapping Tactics

Leaning pole sets, cubbie sets and dirt-hole sets are generally considered best for fisher and size 1 1/2 or 2 traps are adequate. Medium-sized body gripping traps are effective for fisher, but they must be used cautiously to avoid killing domestic animals. Box traps can also be used effectively.

Baits and Lures

Fisher musk and urine, fish oil, beaver castor, and skunk essence are attractive to fisher whether used alone or in combinations. These lures can be used with bait such as fresh flesh to increase the drawing power (through increased odor) of the bait. Several commercial lures are also available.