Rare fisher spotted on trail camera in Murrysville, PA

A trail camera in Murrysville, Pennsylvania, recently captured images of a fisher, a species that had previously been extirpated from the state. This sighting is significant as it highlights the successful reintroduction efforts that have allowed fishers to return to Pennsylvania's wildlife. PixCams, the organization behind the camera, shared the photos on social media, expressing their excitement about the unexpected wildlife encounters that trail cameras can reveal. The captured fisher was observed scrambling over a log and interacting with the camera, showcasing its natural behavior. Fishers are known for their unique characteristics, including their size, with males reaching lengths of up to 48 inches. They are the second largest member of the weasel family in Pennsylvania and are particularly noted for their ability to prey on porcupines. The Pennsylvania Game Commission has documented the challenges in tracking fisher populations due to their secretive nature, making it difficult to determine when they were last present in the state before their extirpation. Historically, fishers thrived across Pennsylvania until extensive deforestation in the 19th century led to their decline. However, through reintroduction programs between 1994 and 1998, nearly 200 fishers were brought back to six sites in northern Pennsylvania. These efforts have resulted in a well-established population of fishers in various regions of the state, including southwestern, central, and northern areas. The recent sighting in Murrysville serves as a testament to the success of these conservation initiatives, demonstrating the resilience of wildlife and the importance of preserving natural habitats for species recovery.