Conata Basin /Badlands site: (click here) Black-footed
ferrets were reintroduced into the Conata Basin/Badlands area of
southwestern South Dakota in 1994-1999. Thirty-six ferrets were
released in 1994. In 1995, there were at least two wild-born
litters. Thirty-three more ferrets were released in 1995 and in
1996 there were as many seven as wild-born litters. Releases at
this site indicated that “preconditioning” ferrets to the site prior to
release resulted in higher success. As of 2000, this site had at
least 200 ferrets and appeared to be the first established,
self-sustaining wild population since reintroductions began. In 2005
245 ferrets were reported and because plague was confirmed in
prairie dog colonies near the ferrets, a preventative treatment program
was initiated.
In 2004, 93 ferrets were released onto the
Rosebud Sioux Reservation in South Dakota. In 2005 42 survivors
were counted and 15 new kits were observed later that year.
