Lewis, E.; Ball, L.; Swinnerton, K.; Gardner, R.; Armour-Chelu, N.; Fitzmaurice, A.

Species distribution models are used to predict habitat suitability for a species, by quantifying the environmental characteristics which allow a species to occupy a geographical area. The abundance and range of Pine Marten (Martes martes) has declined substantially in Great Britain, with the remaining populations restricted to Scotland. Here, we perform species distribution modelling to determine habitat suitability, and identify potential reintroduction sites, for Pine Marten in Great Britain. Using a global range dataset of 4,189 occurrences, and seven environmental variables, ensemble species distribution models were used to predict habitat suitability across Europe at 1 km resolution and Great Britain at 100 m resolution. High habitat suitability was identified across substantial areas in the South East, East of England and South West, with pockets of suitable habitat along the West Coast of Britain. The results indicate that elevation and land cover are important drivers of suitability.