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Mammal✓ Protected species

Stone Marten / Weasel / Pine Marten

Martes foina / Mustela nivalis / Martes martes

✓What to do NOW

  1. 1Mustelids bite with force disproportionate to their size and do not let go — sturdy gloves are essential
  2. 2Pick up with cut-resistant gloves and wrap in a thick cloth to restrict movement
  3. 3Box with air holes, well sealed — the stone marten can open simple containers
  4. 4Dark and quiet: reduces stress and aggression
  5. 5Contact CRAS specialised in small mammals

✗NEVER do this

  • ✗Do not approach without gloves: the adult weasel bites deeply into fingers
  • ✗Do not attempt to contain without a secure lid — they escape from any gap
  • ✗Do not feed
  • ✗Do not approach a female with young: she is very aggressive

⚠ Important note

The stone marten is common in built-up areas (lives in lofts) and is often a traffic victim. The weasel, though tiny (20–25 cm), is surprisingly aggressive. Stone marten cubs found alone from May to July: the mother may have died on the road — wait 4–6 hours in silence before intervening.

⚖ Legal protection

All native mustelid species are protected by Law 157/1992 (with the exception of the polecat which is huntable in some regions).

Also known as

stone martenweaselpine martenpolecatstoatEuropean minkmustelid

Did you find a stone marten / weasel / pine marten right now?

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