Wildlife

Wild Pine Marten Recovery UK

Pine martens are recovering in Scotland and are being reintroduced to Wales and England, with evidence that their presence benefits red squirrel conservation through grey squirrel suppression.

Key Facts

Pine martens became extinct in England and Wales by the early 20th century
Scottish populations have recovered from under 1,000 to an estimated 4,000 individuals
Pine marten recovery correlates with grey squirrel decline due to predation pressure
Reintroduction to Wales in 2015 has led to a self-sustaining population
Illegal persecution through trapping and poisoning remains a threat to expanding populations

Welfare Considerations

Pine martens recovering into new territories face risks from road collisions, illegal persecution, and competition for dens. Animals released in reintroduction programmes experience translocation stress and must establish territory in unfamiliar habitat. Illegal killing - which remains a significant risk despite legal protection - causes trauma and removes individuals from recovering populations. Road kills disproportionately affect dispersing juveniles.

What You Can Do

Report suspected pine marten persecution to police wildlife crime officers
Support Vincent Wildlife Trust and Wildlife Trusts involved in marten reintroduction
Follow pine marten monitoring projects to support population data
Advocate for improved legal protection enforcement in areas with recovering populations
Provide nest boxes in suitable woodland habitat in areas with known pine marten presence