Fishers Go Free in Olympics!

This past weekend, Olympic National Park coordinated the release of 11 fishers in several locations throughout the park.

The release was the first phase of a plan to reintroduce about 100 captured fishers into the park. The weasel-like mammals, which are native to Washington, were extinguished from the park in the late 19th and early 20th century by trappers. Fishers weigh between 5 and 10 pounds, and are adept hunters. They'll eat squirreels, small rodents, rabbits, and an occasional bird or fish. You can can read more about fishers and martens in this month's issue of Washington Trails magazine.

The fishers released this past weekend were bred in British Columbia, and each of the animals was fitted with a radio tracking collar, according to an article today's Seattle Times. The reintroduction plan was crafted last year by the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife, in conjunction with the National Park Service. Fishers will be reintroduced at three areas of the park: Elwha-Sol Duc, Hoh-Bogachiel, and Queets-Quinault.

Good luck little critters!

Let us know if you seen any fishers out on the trail!