Pine martens are recovering in Scotland and recolonizing England and Wales, with welfare considerations around reintroduction programs and interaction with grey squirrels.
Reintroduction involves capture, transport, and release stress for founder animals. Illegal persecution on game estates still occurs causing traumatic deaths. Pine martens in fragmented habitats face increased road mortality during dispersal. Kits separated from mothers by road mortality face starvation. The wildlife benefits through grey squirrel control represent an indirect improvement in ecosystem welfare.