The introduction of mustelids was first proposed in 1881 to control the rabbit scourge. Concerns were expressed at the time that mustelids may seriously endanger our native fauna. Although they reduced rabbit populations, mustelids were major players in the decline and loss of some of our native fauna.
Ferrets are mostly ground dwelling and eat small mammals, birds, lizards and frogs.
They often kill poultry during mid to late summer. Stoats are avid climbers, feeding on birds, rats, mice, and invertebrates. Weasels are less common, and eat birds, mice and lizards. Fenn traps should be set in wooden tunnels made from old timber. The tunnels should be 1m long with internal dimensions of 20cm wide and 17cm high.