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Source: This post on black-footed ferret has been created based on the article “Successful birthing by cloned black-footed ferret raises new hope for conservation of endangered species” published in Down to Earth on 9th November 2024.
Why in news?
Recently, Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) researchers successfully witnessed the birth of two black-footed ferret kits by a cloned mother. This birth is significant for conservation efforts, as black-footed ferrets are one of the most endangered mammals in North America, with an estimated 370 left in the wild.
About black-footed ferret
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| Aspects | Description |
| About | 1. The black-footed ferret (Mustela nigripes) is a rare and only native ferret species to North America’s prairies. 2. This slender, weasel-like animal is the only ferret species native to North America and is known for its distinct black face mask, black-tipped tail, and black feet, which give it its name. 3. These ferrets are solitary by nature, coming together only for breeding or when females are raising their young. |
| Physical Description | 1. Their fur is mostly yellow-buff with lighter areas on the belly, forehead, muzzle, and throat, while distinctive black markings cover their face, feet, and the tip of their tail. 2. Their legs are short but strong, with large front paws and claws that are well-adapted for digging. 3. They are equipped with large ears and eyes. 4. Ferrets likely have acute hearing and sight; however, their sense of smell is considered their primary tool for locating prey underground in the dark. |
| Diet | 1. About 90% of their diet consists of prairie dogs, and one ferret may consume over 100 prairie dogs each year. 2. They also eat small mammals like mice, rats, ground squirrels, rabbits, and occasionally birds, reptiles, and insects. |
| Communication | Highly vocal animals, black-footed ferrets use distinct sounds to communicate. A loud chatter serves as an alarm, while a hiss indicates fear or agitation. Female ferrets often whimper to encourage their young to follow. |
| Conservation Status | IUCN: Endangered |
UPSC Syllabus: Environment
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