Pine martens released to be reintroduced to Devon

The endangered predator went extinct in south-west England 150 years ago

Work to release 15 pine martens into woods across Dartmoor has been completed, the Devon Wildlife Trust (DWT) says.

The mammals, which are related to weasels and otters, were brought down from Scotland.

They were kept in soft-release pens for three days to get them used to their surroundings before being allowed to run wild, staff said.

Conservation manager Ed Parr Ferris said: "These rare mammals need our help to return to their former homes in the South West, but we also need their help to bring back the natural balance of wildlife to our woodlands."

Ed Parr Ferris said those working on the project found it really exciting.

Mr Parr Ferris said the charity had conducted extensive consultation with communities.

He said: "We have a team of staff that can go out and work with landowners, farmers, the shoot community, etc, to make sure this project can work along side them."

The eight females and seven males have all been fitted with a radio collars to allow their movements to be tracked.

The conservation group said it hoped to flat pack the enclosures the animals were initially released in to use them again for another leg of the project in Exmoor in 2025.