Marten
Martes americana or Pine Marten, American Sable
Description
- The marten, or pine marten, is a weasel like animal
that is dark brown to blond in colour with a paler head
and underparts. The tail is long and bushy; the ears
pointed and small. Average weight is 1-4 pounds.
Distribution
- The marten occurs throughout most of Canada particularly
in coniferous forests.
Biology
- In April, 2-4 young are born blind in a leaf nest.
The marten feeds on squirrels, rabbits, birds, mice,
eggs, berries, seeds and honey. Their valuable pelts
have led to their extirpation in many areas and logging
has destroyed their habitats. Martens are now protected.
Tracks - Although the tracks of the mink and
marten are very similar, the habitat is not. While the
mink prefers the water the marten is partial to land.
Generally the marten has a larger track and in winter
the feet are covered in hair which obscures the five
toe pads. This hair is not evident in the warmer months.
The trail of the marten will show the over-lapping of
the front and hind feet and while running a series of
four prints in a rough line, a space then the series
of four prints is characteristic.
Straddle: 8 - 11 cm (3.2 - 4.4 in)
Stride: 23 - 66 cm (9.2 - 26.4 in)
Track: 3.5 cm (1.4 in) long / 4 cm (1.6 in) wide
