Wildlife Welfare

Wild Pine Marten Recovery and Welfare

Pine marten populations are recovering in the UK following persecution and habitat loss, with reintroductions in England and Wales supporting range expansion.

Key Facts

Pine martens were almost extinct in England and Wales by the late 20th century
Scottish population provided animals for reintroduction programmes in Wales and England
Pine marten recovery is associated with grey squirrel decline benefiting red squirrels
Martens require connected woodland habitat with suitable den sites for breeding
Illegal persecution by trapping and poisoning remains a threat to recovering populations

Welfare Considerations

Pine martens recovering from near-extinction face ongoing welfare threats from illegal persecution and habitat fragmentation. Supporting recovery through habitat protection and tackling illegal killing directly improves welfare prospects for this charismatic recovering species.

What You Can Do

Report any suspected illegal pine marten persecution to police wildlife crime units
Support the Vincent Wildlife Trust's pine marten reintroduction programme
Create or maintain connected woodland habitat that supports pine marten range expansion