Reintroduction of Pine Martens Commences in Lake District Woodland

Pine martens have been reintroduced into Lake District woodland with the aim of increasing their populations. A total of eight females and five males were released into Grizedale Forest and the Rusland Valley, as part of an initiative spearheaded by the University of Cumbria and the University of Leeds. These mammals, which are related to weasels and otters, faced near extinction by the early 20th Century due to habitat loss and hunting. This marks the initial phase of two planned releases by the pine marten recovery project, an effort to bolster numbers in their native woodland. The University of Leeds reported that the thirteen healthy pine martens were relocated under licence from robust populations in the Scottish Highlands. Researchers indicated that it was previously believed they had vanished entirely from England until a rare observation occurred in 2022. The undertaking involves a consortium of landowners and organizations, among them the Upper Duddon Landscape Recovery Project. Professor Dominick Spracklen, from the University of Leeds’ School of Earth and Environment, confirmed that camera traps have been installed and the mammals equipped with radio collars. He stated, “It is exciting to watch their movements as they get used to their new home in the Lake District.” Pine martens are recognized as adept tree-climbers and are characterized as shy, nocturnal creatures. Dr. Mic Mayhew from the University of Cumbria directed the habitat surveys and monitoring, which determined that Grizedale Forest and the Graythwaite Estate were the most appropriate areas for the release. Dr. Mayhew remarked, “The good connectivity of woodlands in the area means that they might be expected to move quite quickly to other parts of south Cumbria including the Duddon Valley.” This coincides with the Upper Duddon Landscape Recovery Project’s exploration of various options for the habitat restoration of native woodland, wood pasture, heath, scrub, and peat bogs. The expectation is that populations of species such as water voles, globeflowers, tree pipits, and pine martens will increase. Follow BBC Cumbria on X, Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram. Send your story ideas to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk.Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.