Mustela putorius furo, commonly known as the domestic ferret, is a carnivorous mammal with a slender body and a playful demeanor. They have a distinctive mask-like facial pattern and a long, sleek tail. Ferrets are highly social animals, known for their curious and mischievous nature, often engaging in playful interactions with their environment.

The Mustela putorius furo, commonly known as the domestic ferret, is not found naturally in the wild. It is a domesticated form of the European polecat (Mustela putorius), which is native to Europe and parts of western Asia. The European polecat's distribution includes countries like Spain, France, Germany, and extends into Russia and the Middle East.

The habitat of the European polecat, the ancestor of the domestic ferret, typically includes temperate forested areas, grasslands, and sometimes agricultural lands. It prefers environments with dense vegetation or cover, which provide ample hiding spots and hunting opportunities.

The ecological niche of the European polecat involves being a carnivorous predator, primarily preying on small mammals, birds, and occasionally amphibians. It often occupies burrows or dens, either made by other animals or by itself, and is adapted to both terrestrial and semi-aquatic environments.