Two pine martens have disappeared in ‘suspicious circumstances’ in South Cumbria.
Cumbria police and the South Cumbria Pine Marten Recovery Project are appealing for information following the disappearance of the tracked pine martens, one of which may have two dependant kits.
The pine martens are part of an ongoing University of Cumbria-led project, to reintroduce the species to South Cumbria.
The loss of the two adult pine martens and kits could compromise the recovery of the population and is a real concern to the project team, police said.
Pine martens are fully protected under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, which makes it an offence to intentionally or recklessly:
- kill, injure or take a pine marten
- damage, destroy or obstruct to their place of rest (nest or den)
- disturb a pine marten when it is occupying a nest or den for shelter or protection.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact PC 1375 O’Key of Cumbria police via 101, or can report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
