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Pine Martens Make a Comeback Across Northern Ireland

10/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Pine martens, once nearly extinct in Northern Ireland, are now found across all six counties, including Belfast.
Experts, including Dr. David Tosh, say the recovery is notable and that martens could adapt to urban living.
Local residents like Paddy Lowry report pine marten encounters in gardens and even inside homes in Fermanagh and Armagh.
Pine martens are omnivores, with a diet that includes grey squirrels.

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Story summary

Pine martens, once nearly extinct in Northern Ireland, are now found across all six counties, including Belfast.
Experts, including Dr. David Tosh, say the recovery is notable and that martens could adapt to urban living.
Local residents like Paddy Lowry report pine marten encounters in gardens and even inside homes in Fermanagh and Armagh.
Pine martens are omnivores, with a diet that includes grey squirrels.