Or rather, what goes there? I spotted these paw prints whilst out walking yesterday.
I’m fairly sure that they belong to a pine marten. Five toes rather than four, so not canine, and the way they were spaced along the muddy verge strongly suggests a pine marten’s gait.
We know that these beautiful and shy animals are around us in the woods, and we’ve seen individuals one two occasions – both fairly fleeting glimpses, unfortunately.
I’m afraid I have no photographs of an actual pine marten to share, but you can see pictures and find out more about them on the Mammal Society’s website.
I adore pine martens – have only seen a couple and have no photos but they are absolutely adorable creatures. I harbour a desire to reinvent myself as Bear Grylls which my daughters find acutely embarrassing!