American Marten

Martens are very curious and actively investigate every crevice, log, or stump in search of food. They are active throughout the year and are well-adapted for life in a cold and snowy environment. During winter, martens have thick, dark brown fur and an orange throat patch. Their summer coat is lighter in color and texture. Broad feet and fur-covered soles enable martens to travel on top of deep snow, but they often tunnel under the snow in search of prey. Their diet varies seasonally, and usually includes small mammals, such as red squirrels, redbacked voles, meadow mice, white footed mice, snowshoe hares and marmots. Depending on availability, as well as the season, martens will eat birds, eggs, insects, berries, beechnuts, and carrion.