Meet the American Marten

Marten are members of the Mustelidae family which in Alaska include weasels, mink, wolverines, river otters, and sea otters. The marten’s coat is characterized by soft, dense fur which varies in color from pale yellow to dark brown, often shading to black on the feet and legs. Marten have sharp, non-retractable claws which they use for climbing as well as for holding their prey. Large furry paws allow the marten to travel easily over deep snow. American marten do not hibernate and are active all winter. Although similar in color, size, and shape to mink, marten are usually found in the uplands while mink are more associated with streams and coastal areas. American marten are found from Southeast Alaska all the way up to the northern and western portions of the state where the last trees disappear and the arctic tundra begins.
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