What law is it that says ferrets are illgel in CA?

Answer 1

The problem with sensible's link it that it gives you a number, but not the code. The statute is Fish and Game Code section 2118. Incidentally, the first version of this law appeared in 1933, so I doubt it had anything to do with the gold rush.

Answer 2

That law dates from the goldrush of the 1840s, when miners would avoid buying shovels, but instead smuggle trained ferrets, hidden up their trouser-legs, into their mines to dig for gold.

Answer 3

I have included a link that gives the number and the provisions for CA. Just click on the link.

http://www.geocities.com/Yosemite/7379/2118.html