The Pine Marten belongs to the family Mustelidae
along with the weasel, sea otters, badgers and skunks. Also called
the American Sable (Martes americana) this little weasel-like
mammal is about 20 to 27 inches long not including the tail.
It weighs from 1 to 3 pounds. Colors can be dark brown to blond.
The brood of 2 to 5 young are born in an
underground den or hollow tree in the spring. The young are blind
and naked at birth and are weaned six weeks later. Pine Martens
prefer coniferous forests containing much cover, 
which is where
they can find the small rodents they hunt.
Martens eat fruit, nuts and small rodents,
such as voles. They will also eat earthworms, eggs and insects.
Pine Martens are found throughout Canada
and in the US, they are found in Alaska, in the West along the
coast to Northern California and through the Rocky Mountains.
In the East the northeastern states to northern New York and
New England.
The American Marten is a protected species
and is making a comeback in numerous areas of its range. It had
been threatened because of overhunting and habitat destruction.
Martens are hunted for their valuable pelts.
The little plush Pine Marten is from the
Stuffed Animal House. You may be able to find some in
the Gift Shop.
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to Forest Friends Index.
