Habitat:
Forests and woodlands

Activity period :
Mainly active at night, generally discreet during the day.

Identification and description:
The Beech Marten is a small carnivorous mammal belonging to the mustelid family. It measures between 40 and 50 cm in length, with a tail that can reach up to 30 cm, and typically weighs between 1.5 and 2 kg. Its fur is dense and smooth, typically brown in color, with a lighter belly and a distinctive white patch on the throat. The Beech Marten is agile and opportunistic, primarily hunting small mammals, birds, eggs, as well as fruits and insects. It is mainly nocturnal and solitary, but can be observed in a wide variety of habitats, including forests, orchards, and even urban areas. It is known for its ability to climb trees and enter attics and lofts of human dwellings. While the Beech Marten is relatively common in Europe, it faces threats related to habitat loss and human activities, such as road traffic and deforestation.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
Use a telephoto lens to photograph from a distance, respecting the discreet, agile, and mostly nocturnal nature of the species. Photograph at dawn or dusk, when soft light highlights the shades of its brown fur, its distinctive white throat patch, and its stealthy movements. Look for it in mixed woodlands, farmlands with hedgerows or thickets, and also in urban areas where it often takes shelter in attics, gardens, sheds, or abandoned buildings. Be patient and observant: the stone marten is wary and most active at nightfall. Remain quiet and still to avoid disturbing its natural behavior. The Stone Marten is classified as a Least Concern species by the IUCN. However, it remains vulnerable to habitat fragmentation and human-wildlife conflict, especially in urban settings. Respecting its space and minimizing disturbance—especially during the breeding season—is essential for its conservation.