What is the skeletal structure of a black-footed ferret?

Axial Skeleton:

- Skull: The black-footed ferret has a relatively small, elongated skull with a broad rostrum and a pronounced sagittal crest.

- Mandible: The mandible is robust and features a prominent angular process.

- Vertebrae: The vertebral column consists of 7 cervical, 13 thoracic, 6 lumbar, 4 sacral, and 19-20 caudal vertebrae.

- Ribs: There are 13 pairs of ribs, with the first 8 pairs attached to the sternum.

- Sternum: The sternum is elongated and narrow.

Appendicular Skeleton:

- Forelimbs: The forelimbs are relatively short and robust, with five digits on each paw.

- Hindlimbs: The hindlimbs are longer than the forelimbs and also have five digits on each paw.

- Limb Bones: The limb bones include the humerus, radius, ulna, femur, tibia, and fibula.

- Feet: The feet are relatively broad and feature semi-retractable claws.

Overall, the skeletal structure of the black-footed ferret is adapted for its small size and specialized burrowing behavior.