12/06/2026
Pine martens are one of Mull’s newest and most elusive residents, only confirmed on the island since the mid‑2000s. They’re shy, tree‑loving predators — sleek, chestnut‑brown, with creamy bibs and bright, curious eyes — and spotting one feels like being let in on a woodland secret.
🌲 How they arrived
Evidence suggests pine martens were not historically native to Mull, and likely arrived around 2004, probably by accidental transport on timber boats or vehicles coming from the mainland.
Their spread mirrors what happened on Skye, where they recolonised rapidly after the bridge opened.
🐾 Where they live on Mull
Mull offers exactly what pine martens love: Plenty of den sites in old trees, rocky crevices, and outbuildings A good supply of voles, their favourite prey and Very few competing predators — Mull has no foxes, which helps martens thrive
They’re most often found in quiet woodland edges, especially where there’s mixed habitat and little disturbance. Sightings remain s**ttered and rare — they’re masters of staying hidden.
🍽️ What they eat
Pine martens are opportunistic: Voles, mice, and small mammals, Birds and eggs, Berries, insects, and carrion. Early studies suggest their impact on Mull’s wildlife is low, mostly affecting common small birds.
🍼 Breeding on Mull
A breeding event was recorded not long after their arrival — a sign they’re establishing a small but stable population.
👀 Chances of seeing one
Pine martens are nocturnal, quiet, and incredibly wary, so sightings are rare. Your best chance is at dusk or dawn, Near woodland edges In quiet areas with little human activity Watching for their distinctive bounding gait or their high, chattering calls.
Local wildlife guides sometimes pick up signs like s**t or tracks, but even they consider a sighting a special moment.
🌿 Why they matter
Their presence adds another layer to Mull’s already rich wildlife tapestry — a sign of healthy woodland and a reminder that the island is still wild enough to welcome an animal that gets here on its own back. With fingers crossed that it does not change the diverse wild life we have here already.
