Definition & Meaning of "marten"

What is a "marten"?

Martens are medium-sized mammals that belong to the Mustelidae family, which also includes animals such as weasels, badgers, and otters. They are known for their sleek bodies, sharp claws, and bushy tails. Martens have a dense fur coat that comes in various colors, such as brown, black, or yellowish, depending on the species. They have a pointed snout, short legs, and sharp teeth. Martens are agile and skilled climbers, with sharp senses of sight, smell, and hearing. They are carnivorous animals that primarily feed on small mammals, birds, insects, and fruits. Martens are found in various habitats, including forests, woodlands, and mountains, and are distributed across many regions around the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. They are known for their elusive and solitary nature, often being active at night and spending much of their time in trees or on the ground in search of food.