Fisher

A fisher, a member of the weasel family, was likely struck by a vehicle on Highway 2 last Sunday near Leavenworth. We rarely conduct field calls but since a state endangered species was in critical condition on the side of the road, two staff members, including our veterinarian, drove to the scene to provided critical care. Fortunately, a WDFW biologist stationed in Wenatchee arrived shortly before our staff to immobilize the animal and keep him safe. The 2-hour drive back may have been too long of a delay in his condition, so our veterinarian administered an IV fluid treatment on site to reduce the swelling in his brain from presumed head trauma. Early treatment led to improvements the next day, and the fisher started eating. Sadly, after 48 hours, the patient died from his injuries. He was released back in November of last year in the North Cascades and had traveled 36.5 miles, straight line distance, to where he was recently found.

Fishers were trapped to extinction in Washington State by the mid 1950’s. However, thanks to the partnership between Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, the National Park Service, Conservation Northwest, Calgary Zoo, and many other agencies and groups, these forest dwelling mustelids have been reintroduced to the Olympic and Cascade Mountains in Washington.

Learn more about this incredible collaboration!