- Lifespan
- 8–10 years in the wild, up to 17 years in captivity
- Size & Weight
- Body length 40–50 cm, tail 20–26 cm; 1.0–2.0 kg (males larger than females)
- Habitat
- Coniferous and mixed woodlands, particularly Scots pine forests, with access to rocky terrain and tree cover.
- UK Distribution
- Resident in Scotland, primarily the Highlands and islands; recently re-established populations in England (Lake District, Northumberland) and Wales following reintroduction programmes.
- Diet
- Omnivorous opportunistic feeder including small mammals, insects, fungi, berries, nuts, and birds' eggs, with seasonal variation based on availability.
- Prey
- Voles, mice, shrews, insects, chicks, and eggs
- Predators
- Golden eagles (chicks and juveniles), foxes, and occasionally larger raptors; humans historically via persecution and road traffic
- Mating Season
- June to August (delayed implantation)
- Breeding
- Litter size 2–5 kits (typically 3–4); gestation approximately 30 days after implantation; young emerge from den in April–May and are independent by August–September.
- Behaviour
- Largely nocturnal and arboreal, though more terrestrial than some Martes species. Solitary and territorial with strong site fidelity. Highly agile climbers using trees for shelter, hunting, and denning.