Perhaps the most mislabeled mammal out there, the fisher cat (Pekania pennanti) (or, as more accurate animal pros call it, the fisher) has no relation to fish or cats, nor does it hunt either one (supposedly ... we'll get to that in a second).

It is a member of the mustelid family, and is the only living member of the genus Pekania. It is sometimes referred to as a fisher cat, although it is not a cat. [3] The fisher is closely related to, but larger than, the American marten (Martes americana) and Pacific marten (Martes caurina).

Feb 3, 2020 · Despite the sometimes common name “fisher cat,” fishers are not cats, nor do they eat much fish, even though they are great swimmers, as well as climbers. Fishers have small round ears to prevent heat loss, and broad, blackish five-toed feet featuring retractable claws, which act as snowshoes.

Nov 4, 2020 · The fisher cat's reputation as an aggressive hunter has led to unfair and unfounded rumors that fisher cats attack and eat pets and even small children.

Apr 6, 2011 · Cats are medium-size mammals, so cats fit within fishers’ potential prey. Fishers are also excellent tree climbers, effectively cutting off the cat’s typical escape route. However, with their...

Apr 1, 2024 · Some people mistakenly refer to fishers as “fisher cats.” The fisher’s short muzzle, long whiskers, and retractable claws may seem cat-like, but they are actually members of the weasel family (Mustelidae).

Jan 10, 2023 · The fisher cat is neither a fisher nor a cat. Instead, it’s a weasel relative that only eats fish that are already dead and washed up on a shore. The fisher likely got its name from European settlers in North America, who thought it was similar to the European polecat, known as the “fitche” or “fichet.”

Apr 17, 2024 · Fisher cats are predators, with a reputation for feeding on household cats (if they are outdoors), rabbits and chickens, according to Mass Wildlife. So residents need to take steps to make...

Feb 8, 2025 · Bobcats and fisher cats are both members of the weasel family, but they have distinct characteristics and behaviours that set them apart. So, which one is tougher? Let's take a closer look at these two predators and see how they stack up against each other.

Feb 8, 2025 · Fishers, sometimes called fisher cats, are native to North America and members of the weasel family. They are shy, solitary, and prefer to avoid humans. They are also fierce hunters and one of the few predators of the North American porcupine.