The use of baited hair traps and genetic analysis to determine the presence of Pine marten

The pine marten (Martes martes) is one of Ireland’s most elusive mammals. Between July 2003 and July 2005, hair tubes attached to trees with adhesive patches inside, were used to detect presence of marten in Portlaw Woods, County Waterford. Screening tests of potential lures to assess attractiveness and suitability were carried out on a variety of substances on free-living and captive pine marten. The use of chicken as a short-term lure was successful in attracting pine marten to the hair tubes. Peanut butter and marmalade scored highly as potential long-term lures. There was an increase in the number of visits to the hair tubes, which may mean that pine marten ‘learn’ where the hair tubes were. Samples retrieved were DNA species-typed to verify presence /absence of target animals and DNA sex-typed for gender distribution. A strong gender bias in favour of males was discovered. Findings have implications for field studies and how data is gathered for such studies while also important for conservation population management schemes