Pine martens have been successfully reintroduced to Wales, with welfare monitoring of translocated animals essential to programme success.
Pine marten welfare in reintroduction programmes involves both the translocation stress of capture and release, and the challenge of establishing territories in unfamiliar landscapes. Individual welfare monitoring through radio tracking identifies animals in difficulty and enables intervention where possible. Providing suitable woodland habitats with nest boxes reduces the time translocated animals spend exposed and increases establishment success. The programme includes welfare screening at capture and veterinary assessment before release to minimise introduction of health-compromised individuals.