Wild America Season 7 Episode 3 Meet the Marten

In this episode of Wild America, the focus is on the marten, a small, elusive predator that inhabits the dense forests of northern North America. Host Marty Stouffer ventures deep into the woods to try and catch a glimpse of these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.

Marten, also known as pine martens or American martens, are members of the mustelid family, which includes weasels, otters, and ferrets. They are about the size of a small house cat, with long, slender bodies, short legs, and bushy tails. Their fur is dark brown, with a cream-colored spot on their throats and chests, and they have large ears and bright eyes that help them navigate the forest.

Stouffer begins his journey by setting up a series of cameras that he hopes will capture marten activity in the area. He is surprised to find that many other creatures, such as raccoons and foxes, also pass through the same paths, and wonders how the marten manages to avoid them and hunt for food.

Stouffer then meets up with biologist Dr. Katy Payne, who has been studying marten behavior for years. Payne explains that marten are primarily nocturnal animals, and are therefore very difficult to observe in the wild. However, she has developed a method for tracking their movements using radio telemetry, which involves attaching a small device to the animal's collar that emits a signal that can be tracked.

Together, Stouffer and Payne set out to locate one of these rare creatures. They trek through the woods, listening for the telltale beeps of the radio collar. After several hours of searching, they finally pick up the signal, and follow it to a dense thicket of trees where a marten is hiding.

Stouffer and Payne watch in amazement as the marten emerges from its hiding place, sniffs the air, and scurries off into the woods. The two experts then have a detailed discussion about the marten's behavior and habits, including how they use their keen sense of smell to locate prey, and how they have adapted to living in a harsh, unpredictable environment.

Throughout the episode, Stouffer and Payne offer a fascinating look into the life of this elusive predator, and the challenges they face trying to survive in a changing world. From their hunting tactics to their social behavior, the marten is a truly unique creature that is still largely a mystery to scientists and nature enthusiasts alike.

Overall, this episode of Wild America is a must-see for anyone interested in wildlife and the natural world. Through stunning footage and expert commentary, it offers a rare glimpse into the world of one of North America's most fascinating creatures.