The Johnston Police Department has issued an important message to residents after a fisher – more commonly known as a fisher cat – had to be euthanized last week.
“We want Johnston residents to be cognizant of these remarkable creatures and to take steps to protect their unattended pets,” Maj. Joseph P. Razza said. “Fisher cats are classified under [state law] as a protected furbearer in Rhode Island, and the [Department of Environmental Management] Division of Fish and Wildlife strictly regulates their harvest to ensure the long-term viability of the state’s population.”
Razza said while fisher cats are not all that common to the area, this is their mating season. After one of the animals had to be euthanized last week – which Razza said was necessary after it was apparently struck by a vehicle as it attempted to cross Cherry Hill Road – Chief Richard S. Tamburini wanted residents to be aware that there may be some fisher cats roaming throughout the town.
Despite its common name, the fisher cat is not feline. It is a member of the same family that includes wolverines, martens, river otters, mink, and weasels. The animal involved in last week’s incident was approximately four feet in length from head to toe, and weighed approximately seven pounds.
Fisher cats are capable tree climbers, and have hind feet that can rotate nearly 180 degrees. They are also one of the few predators that will regularly prey upon porcupines.
Any resident who sees a fisher cat may contact police at 401-231-4210.
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