FERRET

7th February 2024

Photo Credit: irina07 (Getty Images), CANVA

QUOTATION

But, look you Cassius,

The angry spot doth glow on Caesar’s brow,

And all the rest look like a chidden train.

Calpurnia’s cheek is pale, and Cicero,

Looks with such ferret and such fiery eyes

As we have seen him in the Capitol,

being crossed in conference by some senators.

BRUTUS: Julius Caesar, Act 1, Scene 2

FERRET (Mustela furo)

The Ferret is the domestic relative of the Polecat (Mustela putorius). It does have piercing, unswerving eyes, although it is not clear if the description of Cicero is a compliment or an insult.

More Information

Folger Shakespeare Library: Search Shakespeare’s Work.

Vincent Wildlife Trust: Polecats & Ferrets, how to tell them apart

Wessex Ferret Club: A brief history of ferrets