American Marten

Martes americana

The American Marten is small enough to build its leaf and grass nest in a woodpecker hole in a tree. A curious animal, it can be coaxed from its den by mouse-like squeaks. The marten spends most of its time foraging on the ground for rodents, but also eats other small animals, insects, earthworms, eggs, seeds, and berries. Its large feet serve as snowshoes in soft snow.

Look For : A large brown tree-dwelling animal with a foxlike face, orange throat patch, and bushy tail.

Length : Body 14-18" long.

Habitat : Northern pine forests.

Range : Most of Canada and south to California, Rocky Mts., Great Lakes region, and New England.