What is the current status of pine martens in Northern Ireland?

Pine martens, once nearly extinct in Northern Ireland, have made a remarkable comeback and are now found in all six counties of the region.

Where have pine martens been spotted in Northern Ireland?

Pine martens have been spotted in a variety of unexpected locations, including attics in County Armagh, gardens in Lisburn, and even near the city center of Belfast.

How have pine martens been able to thrive in Northern Ireland despite limited natural habitat?

Experts attribute the pine marten's success to its remarkable adaptability, allowing the species to thrive even in urban environments and areas with low levels of woodland and forest cover.

Home / Environment / Pine Martens Make Surprising Comeback Across Northern Ireland

Pine Martens Make Surprising Comeback Across Northern Ireland

11 Oct, 2025

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Summary

Pine martens, once nearly extinct in Northern Ireland, now found in all six counties
Sightings reported in unusual urban areas, including near Belfast city center
Pine martens' adaptability allows them to thrive even with limited natural habitat

Pine Martens Make Surprising Comeback Across Northern Ireland

In a surprising turn of events, the pine marten, a once-endangered native mammal of Northern Ireland, has been making a remarkable comeback across the region. According to recent reports, these elusive creatures have been spotted in a variety of unexpected locations, from attics in County Armagh to gardens in Lisburn and even a busy road near Belfast city center.

Just a few decades ago, the pine marten was on the brink of extinction in Northern Ireland, clinging to survival in the woodlands of County Fermanagh, the Glens of Antrim, and the Mournes. However, the species has since made a remarkable recovery, with sightings now reported in all six counties of the region.

Experts attribute the pine marten's success to its remarkable adaptability. Despite the limited natural habitat available in Ireland, which has one of the lowest levels of woodland and forest cover in Europe, these animals have proven capable of thriving in a variety of environments, including urban areas. This has led to an increase in sightings, with pine martens even being spotted in people's roof spaces and gardens, where they have been known to scavenge for food.