Pine Martens Reintroduced to Dartmoor, England

The Two Moors Pine Marten Project has successfully reintroduced 15 pine martens to Dartmoor, marking the species' return to South West England after a 100-year absence. The release, which took place in September, involved eight adult females and seven adult males sourced from healthy wild populations in Scotland and underwent thorough health checks before their journey. This initiative, led by Devon Wildlife Trust and supported by various conservation organizations, aims to establish a resident population, with plans for a similar release in Exmoor in 2025. Each pine marten was fitted with a radio collar for tracking their movements, which will help monitor their adaptation to the wild. The project represents a significant step toward restoring the region's biodiversity and woodlands, and it has engaged local communities in conservation efforts. Experts emphasize the hope that the presence of these animals will help rebalance the ecological landscape of the area.