The pine marten

The pine marten (Martes martes) is an animal native to Northern Europe. Alternative names (less often used) are European pine marten, baum marten, sweet marten.It belongs in the mustelid family, which also includes mink, otter, badger, wolverine, and weasel.

Martens are small predators which also eat berries, birds' eggs, nuts, and honey. They move on the ground and in trees. Their natural habitat is in pine forests. Their main enemies are said to be the gamekeepers on highland estates. In the United Kingdom, pine martens and their dens have protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Environmental Protection Act 1990. view more...