About

The Pine martin is a medium sized native animal that was thought to have been widespread throughout the UK in historic times. Over the last few hundred years its numbers have declined due to persecution and the loss of woodland cover.

They are usually solitary animals except when they meet up to mate. They are carnivores but also eat fruit and nuts. (picture thanks to Vincent Wildlife Trust)

Where to see

There have been only a few sightings of Pine Martin in Ennerdale over the last 20 years, many have been around the centre of the valley. If you see one please let us know.

Caring

With support and help of the Vincent Wild Trust We have been monitoring for the presence of Pine Martin across the valley.

We have erected 4 Pine Martin den boxes and a number of our volunteers are monitoring using hair tubes. These are simply plastic pipes with a closed end. Inside the pipe honey is smeared over the closed end to encourage animals to investigate the pipe. When the animal goes up the pipe it leaves behind hairs on some sticky tape which can be sent off for DNA testing. This method has identified Pine Martin in Grizedale Forest in South Cumbria in 2011.

In addition to monitoring, our management of the valley is creating better habitats for Pine Martin so that hopefully when they do arrive, probably from Scotland, they will find the right habitats and stay in the valley.