Species profile
About this species
The pine marten is a slender, agile mustelid native to Europe & western Asia, recognised by its rich chestnut-brown fur & distinctive creamy-yellow throat patch. It is an excellent climber, spending much of its time in woodland canopies where it hunts squirrels, birds & small mammals. Once heavily persecuted & driven to near extinction in parts of Britain, populations are now recovering thanks to legal protection & reintroduction programmes.
Predominantly found in mature woodland, particularly coniferous & mixed forests with dense understorey, rocky hillsides & areas with abundant tree cover across northern & western Britain, Ireland & continental Europe.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Pine Marten with us in the United States.
These departures are part of our North America programme.
In the field, David Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Dawn & dusk throughout the year, with late spring to summer offering longer daylight hours & the chance to photograph juveniles emerging from dens.
Use a hide or feeding station baited with peanut butter or jam, as pine martens are bold & curious when food is present. Set up in advance & remain patient, as they are most active during low-light conditions requiring a wide aperture & high ISO setting. A fast shutter speed of at least 1/500s is essential to freeze their quick, fluid movements.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Pine Marten
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.