pine marten

Martens, a versatile family of predators, are known for their adaptability and hunting instincts. They are often found in forests and urban areas and play an important role in the ecosystem by controlling small mammal populations. This fact sheet provides a detailed overview of the biology and lifestyle of martens and highlights the importance of their protection and conservation in different habitats.

The pine marten, known for its agile climbing style and distinctive cream-coloured throat patch, is an important part of European forests. This fact sheet provides a comprehensive overview of the biology and ecology of the pine marten and supports awareness-raising for its conservation and the protection of its habitat.

pine marten Products

Profile: pine marten

  • Scientific classification

    • Class: Mammalia (mammals)
    • Order: Carnivora (predators)
    • Family: Mustelidae (Martens)
    • Genus: Martes
    • Species: M. martes (pine marten)

  • Physical characteristics

    • Size: 42-48 cm body length
    • Tail length: 22-27 cm
    • Weight: 1.5-2.1 kg (males tend to be heavier than females)
    • Special features: Slender body, brown fur with a characteristic cream-colored spot on the throat, very mobile and agile climbers.

  • Habitat and distribution

    • Common regions: Widely distributed in Europe and parts of Asia
    • Habitat: Deciduous and mixed forests, often in old, hollow trees or rocky outcrops
    • Adaptability: High adaptability to different forest habitats

  • Nutrition

    • Diet: Omnivore
    • Typical food: Small mammals, birds, insects, fruits, and eggs

  • Reproduction and lifestyle

    • Mating season: end of summer
    • Gestation period: Approx. 7-8 weeks
    • Litter size: Average 2-3 young
    • Social structure: Solitary, except during mating season

  • Lifespan and protection status

    • Life expectancy: Up to 10 years in the wild, rarely longer
    • Endangered status: Not endangered, but threatened by habitat loss in some areas
    • Conservation measures: Preservation and protection of forest areas to safeguard their habitats

  • So groß ist der Marder wirklich

    • Baummarder: 46 × 55 cm
    • Wiesel: 7 × 10 cm
    • Steinmarder: 25 × 32 cm

    Maße der lebensgroßen Aufsteller (Breite × Höhe), gedruckt im Maßstab 1:1.

    Zu den Aufstellern