LOOKING UP FOR A NEW FERRETOPIA

With the ferreting season closed, I begin to not only repair my equipment but also replace and find pieces of new gear during the summer, usually at country shows and game fairs. But there isn’t much coming on to the market that will really benefit my ferreting. I see the odd variations pop up from time to time, but I was taught by a fisherman that equipment was only equipment if it is of any use — otherwise, it’s merely junk.

My concern at the moment is my ferrets’ housing. After a few moves and plenty of weathering from the howling winds and driving rain at home, the time has come to design and build a new ferretopia. I was always a fan of the ferret court but at the moment it isn’t convenient, so I am planning on expanding some of my larger hutches. Because floor space is at a premium, I intend going upwards and adding an extra storey.

The basis of this construction is a twin-floored, 6ft by 2ft hutch. This gives me ample room to house four or five ferrets together and gives them the room to exercise — and keep away from each other when the grumpy stage arrives before they come into season. In the past I have seen some great hutches, but they have all been let down by the use of a mesh that is too light and fragile. The makers have perhaps underestimated the power of the ferrets’ teeth and jaws.

Escapes are common, and the same applies to having a simple latch on the doors. When a ferret scratches, bites or bashes the door or mesh, these latches come open due to the vibrations. For this reason I will be using a hasp and staple with a tiny padlock on it. This keeps everything in and anybody out, both of which are essential for my peace of mind and sanity.