Getting to know our new woodland neighbour
Pine martens are members of the weasel family of animals. They are around the size of a small cat and are wonderful tree climbers. This makes them ideally suited to living in woodlands. They are mainly nocturnal and most of the time they live alone in sparse populations – so you’re unlikely to see one unless you are very lucky! Much of the pine marten’s diet is made up of voles, but they will also eat other small animals including mice, squirrels, birds and insects. In autumn they also consume a lot of wild fruits.
Their absence has left our local wildlife without a vital, functioning part. As predators of small animals, pine martens play a vital role in balancing nature, especially in our woodlands. The return of pine martens to this area would be a positive step in restoring the fortunes of local wildlife at a time when it faces huge challenges.
We’ve put together some FAQs to help you learn more about why we are reintroducing pine martens.
Restoring balance to our woodlands.
Find out how the reintroduction of pine martens may impact you as a landowner or farmer.
Looking for the science and regulations behind the pine marten project? Find our Two Moors reports and key documents here.
Photos: Terry Whittaker/2020VISION, Mark Hamblin/2020VISION, Mark Hamblin/2020VISION
Sign up to find out about this exciting project to bring pine martens back to the south west and how you can get involved.
The project is led by Devon Wildlife Trust and is a partnership between seven conservation organisations: Dartmoor National Park Authority, Devon Wildlife Trust, Exmoor National Park Authority, Forestry England, National Trust, Somerset Wildlife Trust and Woodland Trust. Young Devon and Space, Devon based youth charities, are supporting the project to involve young people from a range of backgrounds in project objectives. The project is made possible with support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and with thanks to the National Lottery players. We are also grateful for the support of a number of generous donors and for the expert advice and guidance of Vincent Wildlife Trust, NatureScot and the Zoological Society of London.
Devon Wildlife Trust – Registered Charity no. 213224, Company number 733321, VAT no. 585 4735 01
Devon Wildlife Trust
Cricklepit Mill, Commercial Road
Exeter, Devon EX2 4AB
