Difference between Weasel and Ferret
A weasel is a small mammal that is long in body and short of leg. The name weasel actually implies it is bloodthirsty and vicious. Seventeen species of animal are classified as weasels. Weasels live all over the globe with the exception of Australia, its surrounding islands, and Antarctica.
A ferret is a member of the weasel family and looks of the same relative body shape. Ferrets have been domesticated for over 2000 years and they are used for hunting rabbits as well as for simple companionship.
Characteristics of Weasels and Ferrets
A weasel is typically colored red or brown on top and back with a white underbelly. Their long and slim bodies make it easy for them to hunt their prey into burrows. Weasels are known as clever animals.
A ferret is normally brown, black, white, or mixed colors. They are quite similar in appearance to the weasel. They are carnivorous animals, which are sometimes used for hunting rabbits on farms in Europe where rabbits are ravaging the crops.
Behavior of Weasels and Ferrets
Weasels are predators, which eat small animals such as rabbits. Weasels have been known to perform a "dance" called the weasel war dance after a fight or competition. Groups of weasels are called gangs, packs, a sneak, and a boogle.
Ferrets are territorial and like to burrow into a private area for sleeping. Mostly ferrets are found sleeping through the day and only active during dawn and dusk. Ferrets are social creatures and like to live in groups. There are specific health problems known to plague the ferret and should be carefully considered before adopting one as a pet.
Care of Weasels and Ferrets
Ferrets are very domesticated animals and are found as pets throughout the world. Since ferrets have a scent gland like a skunk, but much less potent, many pet stores sell them with scent glands removed. Some countries find this to be a form of mutilation that is unnecessary and sell them with scent glands intact.
Weasels are not as common of a pet as a ferret, but since they are in the same family, weasels make nice enough pets. You can purchase ferret and weasel food for them at any pet store. As weasels have not been domesticated as much as ferrets, they will retain much more of their wild behavior.
Similarities and Differences
- Weasels and ferrets are very similar in terms of body shape and size. They both are carnivorous and crafty. Ferrets have a long history of making wonderful pets and they are known for being entertaining. Weasels and ferrets both eat small animals and make good hunters for farms that are plagued with mice and rabbits.
- When considering a ferret or weasel for a pet it is important to remember that they both sleep for many hours each day but love to exercise and play actively. They are extremely curious animals are infamous little thieves who will hide away their treasures in their private burrows.
- Ferrets are territorial and can be domesticated.
- Weasels are predators and are rarely pets.
