The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo (CMZoo) is at the forefront of the effort to conserve the endangered black-footed ferret (BFF), a species that was once thought to be extinct in the 1980s. As part of the breed-and-release program led by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Black-Footed Ferret SAFE and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, CMZoo has been actively involved in breeding and releasing these elusive creatures back into the wild.
Breeding and Releasing Black-Footed Ferrets at CMZoo
In 2023, CMZoo successfully bred and released 12 BFF kits and 2 beyond-breeding-age adults into wild conservation habitats in Colorado. This is a significant achievement, as the BFF was once considered one of the rarest mammals in North America.
Before the kits are released into the wild, they undergo a “boot camp” at a pre-release pen in Fort Collins, where they learn essential survival skills such as hunting, finding shelter, and navigating their natural habitat. Those that don’t meet the requirements for release are brought back to the zoo to support the breeding efforts or serve as ambassadors for their species.
The Importance of the Prairie Ecosystem
The BFF breeding program at CMZoo is managed by Jeff Baughman, who has attended annual releases for nearly 20 years. Baughman emphasizes the importance of the program in helping the entire prairie ecosystem, as the BFF is closely tied to the survival of the prairie dog.
Prairie dogs are at the core of the prairie’s survival, with 170 prairie species depending on them. Bison, which have a similar story to the BFF, also play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the prairie ecosystem. Bison graze differently than livestock, benefiting the natural vegetation, healthy drainage, and nutrient-rich soil for prairie dogs. Their heavy presence also loosens the soil, creating tunnels that later become homes for BFFs and other species.
Quarters for Conservation: Supporting BFF Conservation Efforts
Every visitor to CMZoo helps support the BFF conservation program, as 75 cents from every admission goes to Quarters for Conservation (Q4C). This initiative has raised nearly $5 million since 2008, which has been used to fund BFF conservation and other important efforts around the world.
Unique Characteristics of the Black-Footed Ferret
The black-footed ferret is a unique and fascinating creature. Some key facts about this species:
- Size: Typically 18-24 inches long and weigh 1-3 pounds.
- Appearance: Distinctive black feet, mask-like facial markings, and a long, slender body.
- Habitat: Historically found in the Great Plains region of North America, they live in prairie dog burrows.
- Diet: Primarily feed on prairie dogs, which make up 90% of their diet.
- Behavior: Nocturnal and solitary, they are skilled hunters and can run up to 15 miles per hour.
- Conservation Status: Endangered, with only a few hundred individuals remaining in the wild.
Conclusion
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s commitment to the conservation of the black-footed ferret is a shining example of the important role that zoos can play in protecting endangered species. Through their breeding and release program, as well as their support for the broader prairie ecosystem, CMZoo is helping to ensure the survival of this unique and fascinating creature.
References:
– Cheyenne Mountain Zoo News: Black-Footed Ferrets Released into Wild, Reinspiring Longtime CMZoo Conservation Staff
– Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: Black-Footed Ferret
– Cheyenne Mountain Zoo News: Black-Footed Ferret