An animal that was once completely eradicated from the New Forest has been spotted thriving in the wild.
Pine martens were once widespread across the UK before habitat loss and persecution left only small and fragmented populations, mostly in northern England, Scotland and parts of Wales.
After a successful breeding event was observed by Forestry England in 2024, pine martens are now being spotted by keen photographers across the region, including Daily Echo Camera Club member Tim Kitts.
Read more
-
Amesbury school among Wiltshire's new Biodiversity Champions
-
Wildlife photography competition celebrating nature is returning
-
Nine-day outdoor event attracts hundreds of residents for activities
-
Wiltshire residents encouraged to take part in the Big Butterfly Count
He said: "Pine Marten seen early this morning in the south of the New Forest."
They live in woodland habitats, especially mature forests with plenty of tree cover, and are excellent climbers, spending much of their time in trees.
Pine martens are a protected species in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, making it illegal to intentionally kill, injure or disturb them in many circumstances.
Share