The European polecat is a small carnivorous mammal that is found in Europe, including Britain and Ireland. It is also known by other names such as the ferret, fitch, foulmart, and black or forest polecat. Other synonyms for this species include the eastern polecat, steppe polecat, siberian polecat, and marbled polecat. These animals are quite agile and have excellent climbing and swimming abilities. They primarily prey upon small mammals and birds and can also feed on insects, reptiles, and amphibians. While they are not typically kept as pets, the European polecat has been domesticated to create the modern ferret.