Pine Marten

The pine marten is a weasel like animal that is dark brown to blond in colour with a paler head and underparts. The tail is long and bushy; the ears pointed and small. Average weight is 1-4 pounds. The marten occurs throughout most of Canada particularly in coniferous forests. In April, 2-4 young are born blind in a leaf nest. The marten feeds on squirrels, rabbits, birds, mice, eggs, berries, seeds and honey. Their valuable pelts have led to their extirpation in many areas and logging has destroyed their habitats. The Pine Marten has been historically important for First Nations for clothing and as a trading commodity after Europeans settled in the area. Currently they are protected from hunting but are a popular and abundant commodity for trappers.

General issues across the Sub Region will be addressed below, followed by management plans specific to individual populations.

Issues:

• Unknown population size of pine martens in the Sub Region
• Research proposals in place that have not been enacted

Goals:

• Initiate studies to determine the extent of pine martens populations in the Sub Region
• Determine necessary conservation measures to maintain healthy population sizes of pine martens