MARTEN

n.

Any of several forest-dwelling carnivore species (genus Martes, family Mustelidae).

Species differ in size and colour, but they resemble weasel s in general proportions, and their fur is valuable. Their total length is 20–40 in. (50–100 cm), and they may weigh 2–5 lb (1–2.5 kg) or more. Martens hunt alone, feeding on animals, fruit, and carrion. The fur of the American marten ( M. americana ) of northern North America is sometimes sold as sable. Other species include the pine, baum, or sweet marten ( M. martes ) of Europe and Central Asia and the yellow-throated marten, or honey dog ( M. flavigula ), named for its preference for sweet foods, of southern Asia. See also fisher ; polecat .

Stone marten ( Martes foina )

Reinhard/Reiser

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