NFR

Promoting Excellence

 

OUR CODE OF CONDUCT AND PRACTICE FOR FERRETERS

PLEASE SEND ANY COMMENTS AND OR ADDITIONS YOU FEEL SHOULD BE MADE TO info@ferreting.biz

 Interpretation

1)               A ferreter is any person who is using a ferret or polecat to control rodents or rabbit be they using a lurcher (any dog), birds of prey, long nets and/or purse nets.

2)               The field is where this activity takes place

3)               NFC is the National Ferreters Register

4)               Ferret husbandry refers only to the time that a ferreter is not hunting.

Countryside & Countryside care whilst ferreting

The countryside is a natural resource of food and sport, at no time should this resource be abused in anyway with specific reference to:

1)               Hunting to extinction

2)               Unnecessary or cruel behaviour towards any animals

3)               Breaking any and all laws referring to the countryside and the species therein

4)               Obtaining permissions from land owners

5)               Leaving rubbish/litter of any kind

6)               If you have to dig out your ferrets ensure that the holes are re-filled.

7)               Gates should be left as found

Ferreting care and control in the field

1)              Although we are aware that ferreters use ferrets to hunt rats the NFR would discourage the use of ferrets for this purpose as it poses a real and distinct danger to the ferret.  We would also suggest that it is not in fact a practical method of rat control.

2)              New ferreters without the ability to use a line hob should without exception ensure that they use a ferret locator.

3)               If digging is required great care should be used so as not to endanger the ferret.

4)               Ferret nets should be counted in and out at each setting

5)              It is strongly recommended that all ferreters carry insurance. This can be obtained from BASC and the Countryside Alliance or join us as a Full Member, be aware their covers do differ, ensure you select the correct one for you and your sport.

6)              Badgers are a protected species and can live alongside rabbits, disturbing a badgers’ set is an offence and care should be taken to learn the signs and distinct differences between a rabbit warren and a badger set. Badgers will kill ferrets.

7)              Foxes will use large rabbit warrens, care should be taken to learn their scent, and foxes will kill your ferrets.

8)        At no time should ferrets be lip sown and or muzzled 

The Quarry

1)              Quarry should be despatched without delay

2)              Whilst paunching and/or skinning care should be taken not to leave remains in a place where others would come across it.

3)              Whilst paunching and skinning care should be taken to ensure that the activities are not on general/public view

4)              An offer of a rabbit should be made to the land owner

5)              FSA (Food Standards Agency) regulations should be followed

Ferret Husbandry

1)               Prevent unnecessary breeding

2)               Ferrets are gregarious and it is usually kinder and better to keep more than one ferret.  They will live together harmoniously and provide each other with play and companionship.  

3)               We recommend at least 1.5m long by 1m wide and 0.75m high for one or two ferrets.  It should have an enclosed sleeping area free from draughts and a solid floor easy to clean

4)               The best diet is one of the complete ferret foods which are a dried food like a cat biscuit.
Clean water must always be available either in a shallow bowl which cannot be tipped over or in a large sized water bottle – or both.

5)         Ferrets should not be forgotten during the Summer months handling, exercise and entertainment should be provided at all times