Six rescued pine martens have been released back into the wild for a ‘second chance at life’.
The group arrived at The Scottish SPCA’s National Wildlife Rescue Centre in Fishcross, Clackmannanshire, earlier this year, where they have been receiving specialist treatment ever since.
Three kits, Oak, Spruce and Aspen, came into the animal welfare charity’s care at the start of May, eyes closed and completely defenceless as their mother had sadly passed away.
The young trio initially went home with a member of the centre team as due to their age, they needed to be fed frequently – including during the night.
As they grew older, they also became stronger, more confident and adventurous, exploring and climbing up the branches of their pen. They eventually joined three older pine martens – Hazel, Cedar and Apple – in the centre’s large outdoor enclosure as they were prepared for release.
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They were all released together back into the wild on Tuesday, September 8, where they will get a second chance at life.
Sean Meechan, Wildlife Operations Lead at the Scottish SPCA, said: “A massive amount of effort and commitment went into the care of these six pine martens, especially into rearing the three kits.
“The team worked round the clock to ensure they were frequently fed and looked after, with our main aim being to build up their strength, rehabilitate them and prepare them for a life back in the wild.
“I am delighted that now, after four months with us, they have all now progressed to their next chapter.”
The Scottish SPCA’s National Wildlife Rescue Centre helps to care for over 10,000 wild animals each year, from pine martens to seals to swans.
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