Young Scared Ferret

Question
I purchased a new ferret about a month and a half ago. I have five ferrets already (3 females and 2 males). I know that they need to establish the pecking order. This part doesn't bother me. What does bother me is that he is very scared of four of them. He is not afraid of our 7 yr old male, who is really easy going and gentle.

Whenever he sees the others, he runs and hides and if they attempt to establish dominance, the new ferret will try to stand his ground but then he ends up pooping everywhere and running away. I have also noticed that these four will actively seek him out and try to mess with him. They all have free reign of the house, so the new guy has plenty of hiding spots (or he runs to me when he's scared).

I've had really good luck in having all of my ferrets get along, but this one seems to be taking longer than the others. This is also the first time I've had a new ferret freak out and poop everywhere. What am I doing wrong? Thanks so much in advance for your help!

Answer
As you know, the establishment of the ferret pecking order is a pretty typical behavior, and it can go on for months.  You seem to be doing everything right... there will be squabbles, but as long as there is no bloodshed or overly violent behavior, it is best to let them work it out under supervision.  Allow short, monitored time together then give the new kid plenty of time away from the rest of the gang so he can have some relief. Put him in a cage where your other ferrets can smell him though the bars but not get to him. With any luck, they will begin to warm to each other in time and live in harmony.  There are situations where some ferrets simply WILL NOT accept a newcomer, and if this happens, you must either keep them separated or re-home the new kid.  

There are a few things you can try that may help.  Try introducing them one at a time instead of having the entire gang harass the poor new guy.  One they begin to accept him, introduce two at once.. etc.  perhaps that will help ease the tension.  Also, switch their sleeping blankets so your gang gets used to the new kid's scent.  Keeping him in a separate cage where the others can smell him though the bars may aid in the transition as well.   

I know this is a stressful time for all of your ferrets and you!  Try to stick with it.  Most cases work themselves out, and with luck this one will as well.

-Cindy P