Jan. 4, 2020: Fishers–Biology & Behavior

Fisher (photo: Bill Byrne, MassWildlife)

Presentation by Jason E. Zimmer: District Supervisor, Southeast Wildlife District,
Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife

Location: Harwich Community Center, #100 Oak Street, 02645
Day/date/time: Saturday, January 4th, 2:00 p.m.
Admission: Suggested donation of $5

The fisher (Martes pennanti) is a secretive, mostly nocturnal mammal that inhabits local habitats. Sometimes people call it a “fisher cat,” but it’s actually not a member of the feline family. Learn the difference between fisher facts and fiction while exploring this unique mammal’s natural history including reproductive biology, food habits, habitat use, and more. Jason Zimmer will share about the history of fisher presence in Massachusetts and review their extirpation from and eventual return to as well as rebound in the state. Jason will also offer some basic advice on living with your wild neighbors. 

About Jason Zimmer: Interested in nature and the outdoors from a very young age, Jason has always been an avid outdoorsperson while hiking, fishing, camping, kayaking, and exploring a variety of wild places. He received a BS in Wildlife Ecology & Management from UNH and a MS in Zoology & Physiology from the Univ. of Wyoming. Jason has studied a wide variety of wildlife from salamanders to grizzlies to mountain lions and everything in between.