Two Moors Pine Marten Project FAQs

Pine martens play an important ecological role in our ecosystem and their reintroduction benefits the restoration of woodlands more broadly. They are a charismatic species and can be a wonderful sight to see in the wild. Returning such species to this area, where this can be done sustainably and with community support, enriches our world.

Pine martens are part of the UK’s rich wildlife heritage. They are one of the rarest mammal species in Britain, following a long history of woodland decline and severe declines in pine marten populations in the 18th and 19th centuries.

In addition to their intrinsic value, pine martens have a significant role to play in recreating natural ecosystems. Along with other similar mid-sized carnivores, pine martens contribute to the natural balance of ecosystems. Pine martens predate invasive species such as grey squirrels, although more research is needed to better understand their potential impact.

Re-establishing pine martens in England also has the potential to benefit the rural economy, as has been the case in Scotland, through the creation of tourism opportunities for people who are keen to see pine martens.

Whilst the pine marten population is recovering well in Scotland and is spreading over the border into parts of northern England, the same natural recovery has not occurred in southern England. Large conurbations and areas of unsuitable habitat in parts of north-west and central England is likely to prevent this population spreading to central and southern England naturally.

Conservation translocations (deliberately moving animals from one place to another) have already been used to restore viable pine marten populations to Mid Wales and Gloucestershire and could be used to restore pine martens to other suitable areas of England.

In line with the long-term strategic recovery plan for pine martens in Britain, the Two Moors Pine Marten Project aims to help speed up the return of the pine marten to the South West, which would otherwise take many decades.

Significant work is still needed before determining whether any reintroduction can, or should, proceed. This includes assessing ecological impacts on other native species and considering the socio-economic impacts on businesses that might be affected (this includes agriculture and commercial shoots). Work will also be carried out to understand whether there is broad support from local communities. In addition, the partnership will need to raise the necessary funds for the project to be effectively run and managed.

For a release into South West England, pine martens would be taken in small numbers over a few years from another part of Britain where the population is carefully monitored and continues to thrive. Prior to being released, the animals would be given a full health check by a vet and fitted with a radio-collar to allow them to be tracked. Once the pine martens were released, they would be closely monitored, so that their location and movements would be known.

Any proposed translocation and release of pine martens must be considered very carefully and comply with International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) guidelines on translocations and Defra’s code and guidance for reintroductions and other conservation translocations. Specifically, if the reintroduced pine martens come from Scotland, their capture and translocation must comply with the Scottish Code for Conservation Translocations.

Prior to any releases going ahead, a feasibility study including a detailed ecological and social feasibility assessment must be carried out, and appropriate licences granted from the relevant authorities.

The proposed re-introduction is intended to help assist the national recovery of pine marten and would begin to establish a permanent and sustainable population in South West England. After completion of the reintroduction project, ongoing work would take place to monitor the expansion and dispersal of pine martens across the South West. Supplementary animal releases may take place in future years to boost numbers if required.

The Two Moors Pine Marten Project is aware of recent sightings and photos of pine martens in North Devon and Exmoor. We are in contact with landowners to offer expert advice and guidance where required.

The origin of the animal(s) is unknown.

The Two Moors Pine Marten Project is still at a feasibility stage exploring if, where and when pine martens can be reintroduced to the South West of England. No pine martens have been released by the project.

The Two Moors Pine Marten Project is led by Devon Wildlife Trust on behalf of a partnership which includes Dartmoor National Park Authority, Exmoor National Park Authority, National Trust and Woodland Trust. Somerset Wildlife Trust is a supporting partner of the project.

To report sightings of pine martens in the South West of England contact the Two Moors Pine Marten Project via 01392 279244 or email contactus@devonwildlifetrust.org