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Mammal✓ Protected species
Stone Marten / Weasel / Pine Marten
Martes foina / Mustela nivalis / Martes martes
✓What to do NOW
- 1Mustelids bite with force disproportionate to their size and do not let go — sturdy gloves are essential
- 2Pick up with cut-resistant gloves and wrap in a thick cloth to restrict movement
- 3Box with air holes, well sealed — the stone marten can open simple containers
- 4Dark and quiet: reduces stress and aggression
- 5Contact CRAS specialised in small mammals
✗NEVER do this
- ✗Do not approach without gloves: the adult weasel bites deeply into fingers
- ✗Do not attempt to contain without a secure lid — they escape from any gap
- ✗Do not feed
- ✗Do not approach a female with young: she is very aggressive
⚠ Important note
The stone marten is common in built-up areas (lives in lofts) and is often a traffic victim. The weasel, though tiny (20–25 cm), is surprisingly aggressive. Stone marten cubs found alone from May to July: the mother may have died on the road — wait 4–6 hours in silence before intervening.
⚖ Legal protection
All native mustelid species are protected by Law 157/1992 (with the exception of the polecat which is huntable in some regions).
Also known as
stone martenweaselpine martenpolecatstoatEuropean minkmustelid
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Full guide
Found a stone marten? How to identify it and what to do
The stone marten lives in attics, barns and garages. Noisy at night, invisible by day. If you find one injured or in trouble, this guide tells you how to handle it safely.
Read the guide →Did you find a stone marten / weasel / pine marten right now?
🆘 Find the nearest rescue centre →