The black-footed ferret is a small, nocturnal mammal native to North America. It has a slender body, a distinctive black mask around its eyes, and black feet. These ferrets primarily inhabit grasslands and are known for their agility and hunting skills, mainly preying on prairie dogs. Once considered extinct, the black-footed ferret has been successfully reintroduced into the wild through conservation efforts. They play a crucial role in their ecosystem by controlling prairie dog populations. However, they remain endangered due to habitat loss and disease, making ongoing conservation efforts essential for their survival.