Introduction
Widespread in parts of Europe but largely considered functionally extinct in much of England, pine marten populations can play a vital role in fostering a biodiverse environment - helping to disperse seeds as well as influencing small mammal populations thanks to their varied diets.
The species is rare across the UK and mainly found in Scotland - but the Sussex Wildlife Trust and Kent Wildlife Trust are now working with the Wildwood Trust to assess the potential of reintroducing these animals to the South East of England.
The Mission
The project is in its very early stages and at the moment is more of an idea that’s up for consideration rather than a fully-fledged plan; after all, initiatives like this take careful planning if they’re going to be successful.
The Trusts are currently determining if the South East of England actually represents a suitable habitat for pine martens - as well as consulting local stakeholders on their thoughts around possible reintroduction.
While the project is yet to be signed off, this is a great example of the meticulous work that goes into reviewing and planning restoration initiatives - as the range of complexities to consider reaches far beyond the animals themselves.
We’ll be following this one closely and you can, too - check out Sussex Wildlife Trust to see why Meaningful Planet is so excited to help fund their amazing work.
