Fisher Cat Spotted in Dedham

A Fisher cat was spotted in Dedham’s Manor area of town Sunday morning.

The Fisher cat was described as aggressive and not intimidated by humans, according to one resident’s report on social media.

It’s not known how many Fisher cats are in the area aside from this isolated report.

Fisher cats can pose a threat to various animals, but residents can take steps to avoid problems, according to the state’s Department of Fisheries and Wildlife website. Domestic cats, rabbits and chickens should be kept indoors at all times since the fisher preys on them, according to the site. Residents can also remove food sources that would attract fisher cats, including bird feeders. Compost piles and garbage cans should also be tightly secured.

The Fisher cat is a shy, elusive animal, according to the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife. They can be active in both day or night, but tend to be seen more at dawn and dusk with nocturnal activity in the summer months and daytime activity during winter. They don’t hibernate so they are active year round.