Ferret Hunting
The use of your favorite fuzzy friend as a hunting partner might be the last thing that you ever consider but the fact is that ferrets make excellent hunting partners. Where do think the term “to ferret” comes from? Yes my friends ferrets are indeed good hunters.
Ferret hunting especially the hunting of rabbits with ferrets has been known since historical times. In fact the ancient Greeks were credited for first recognizing the crafty and shrewd hunting skill of ferrets. Ferret hunting was such a prized activity in mediaeval times that laws were enacted to restrict the ownership of the animals to the hobby of the rich.
So how does ferret hunting works? Once a burrow is identified the ferret is introduced to the rabbit burrow, typically at least two are used. It is important that the entrances to the burrow are covered to prevent the prey/game from escaping. This can be done putting a pole bag at the burrows entrance. Inside the burrow the ferret’s natural hunting instincts go to work as he scampers through the burrow effectively chasing the rabbit from its home. The rabbit will bolt to one of its entrances if covered will get caught in the pole bag. This method is probably the one most used by farmers who are trying to rid their farms of the unwanted nuisance that rats, mice and rabbit caused in their fields.
Indeed ferrets are such good hunters that one can almost say that hunting with ferrets are one good way to ensure you get your game!! However, ferret hunting is not legal in some states of the U.S.A. In countries like Australia and Britain ferret hunting is a vibrant practice.
Let it be said that ferret hunting is not exact science but a skill that when twined with the passion for gaming and outdoor recreation can be rewarding to both the hunter and his/her ferret hunting partner.
Finally, make sure your reward the ferret with a treat after the days hunt and don’t forget to give him his share of the game’s liver, kidneys and heart.
Happy ferret hunting!!!
