Media Availability: Biologists use drones to track endangered black-footed ferrets fitted with sensors
Dean Miller
Southeast Region Public Information Officer
719-466-3927
[email protected]
Nov 18, 2025
Biologists use drones to track endangered black-footed ferrets fitted with sensors
LAMAR, Colo. - News media are invited Wednesday to observe Colorado Parks and Wildlife and The Smithsonian Institute biologists in the field using drones to track and study black-footed ferrets released onto the Southern Plains Land Trust’s Heartland Ranch.
The latest ferret release is part of research to learn the specific cause of depredation of black-footed ferrets at the site. This is the first time CPW will employ drones to track ferret movements with VHF collars in the wild.
Twenty ferrets were fitted with VHF collars in Wellington, Colo., Monday, then transported to Lamar, with plans to release them at the ranch today. Based on their body shape, movement and active tunneling activity, collars typically remain attached for just a few days.
The CPW researchers are working to learn which specific predators threaten the ferrets and explore options to mitigate future losses through non-lethal means.
Researchers from The Smithsonian are seeking comprehensive understanding of ferret movements and activities during their first 7 to 14 days and nights after release.
The Smithsonian’s collaring project offers an unprecedented opportunity for CPW researchers to identify cause-specific mortality - research not attempted in the last 30 years.
Since 2022, 105 ferrets have been released at the ranch. Following extensive spotlighting surveys this fall, not a single ferret was detected. While the presence of other predators is confirmed, it is unknown which species threatens the ferrets.
“This project aims to enhance our understanding of the relationship between black-footed ferrets and their predators,” said Jonathan Reitz, CPW Wildlife Biologist. “Specifically, we are investigating which species prey on any black-footed ferrets in the two weeks following the ferret release.”
Black-Footed Ferrets are among the rarest mammals in North America. Thought to be extinct, they were rediscovered in Wyoming in 1981. CPW and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have collaborated for decades to conserve this endangered species.
Media Availability
A media availability is scheduled south of Lamar, Wednesday, Nov 19 at 1 pm. Media are asked to pre-register their representative’s name and cell number to [email protected]; Media will receive an overview of site research, observe the mesh electric fence, drone use, ground telemetry and ongoing tracking, with opportunities to speak with researchers in these activities and the earlier BFF collaring effort and site release. Links to digital photos, video and captions of the collaring effort and release will be provided. Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1CynvMbPNWy5LmAF8
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