The fisher, often mistakenly called a “fisher cat,” is a carnivorous mammal native to North America, belonging to the weasel family. These animals have a long, slender body, short legs, and a bushy tail, with fur color ranging from dark brown to nearly black. Despite their misleading name, they are not felines and rarely consume fish. While a common misconception suggests aggression towards humans, unprovoked attacks are extremely rare.
Fisher Cat Nature and Human Interaction
Fishers are reclusive and solitary creatures that actively avoid human contact. They are most active during dawn and dusk, but can be observed at any time. Their preferred habitats include coniferous and mixed forests, where they utilize hollow trees, logs, and brush piles for resting and denning. Fishers primarily hunt small mammals like snowshoe hares, squirrels, and rodents, and are one of the few predators capable of hunting porcupines. This dietary preference for smaller prey, combined with their shy nature, means they do not view humans as a food source.
Rare Instances of Aggression
While fishers avoid people, aggression can occur under specific, rare circumstances. Attacks on humans are uncommon and usually happen when a fisher feels threatened, cornered, or is defending its young. Isolated reports of fishers attacking humans exist but are exceptions to their typical behavior and involve a defensive reaction. If bitten or scratched by a fisher, immediate medical attention is advisable due to the potential for rabies transmission. Fishers habituated to human food sources, such as pet food or garbage, may lose their natural fear and become bolder in residential areas.
Minimizing Encounters and Ensuring Safety
To minimize encounters with fishers and ensure safety, consider the following:
Secure potential food sources around properties, including using tightly sealed garbage cans, avoiding leaving pet food outdoors, and cleaning up spilled birdseed.
Remove brush piles, logs, and other organic debris to discourage denning nearby.
Keep small pets indoors, especially at night when fishers are more active.
If a fisher is sighted, maintain a safe distance of at least 20-30 feet.
Use simple scare tactics like loud noises (yelling or clapping) or a gentle spray from a garden hose to encourage the animal to leave.
Never approach or attempt to feed a wild fisher.