National Pine Marten Population Assessment

Abstract

Pine marten (Martes martes) are a protected species in Ireland and have recently undergone a natural range expansion after centuries of decline. Estimates of population abundance and of the conservation status of pine marten are required to meet national and international legislative requirements, and to inform effective management of the species. In this study, variation in pine marten density and abundance was assessed in 19 forested study sites throughout Ireland, using non-invasive research techniques. Pine marten hair samples were collected and analysed using molecular methods to determine individual identity data for each pine marten captured. Density estimates were obtained using spatially explicit capture recapture models. This data was then used as the basis for determining a mean pine marten density across randomly selected study sites, which was combined with data on the current distribution and estimated habitat area occupied by the species, to provide a national pine marten population abundance assessment.