The Making of a Diorama
The Habitat Views video considers ways of looking at dioramas today, and documents the creation of several new displays. Take a look over on our YouTube Channel >
Recreating Nature Indoors
Ever wonder who made the dioramas in our mammal halls? Read all about the artists who created these wonderful scenes. Learn more >
Behind-the-Scenes Tours
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Volunteer Spotlight
Stephen Simon (above left) is a docent at the NHM and the Page Museum at the La Brea Tar Pits. There are many ways to volunteer at our three museums! Learn more >
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American marten
Martes americana (Turton, 1806)
Scene:
Mount Rainier area of Washington StateSponsor:
Sarah and Jonah CaveBackground artist:
Duncan Alanson Spencer (1911-1999)American martens are usually solitary and nocturnal. They are occasionally seen in male/female pairs, or with dependent young.
American martens spend much time, and move with great ease, in trees. They mark scent trails from tree to tree with their strong scent glands . They usually hunt on the ground at dusk and dawn, when prey species are most active. They are also accomplished swimmers and can even swim under water.
Biological Information
Range:
Coniferous forests of northern North America (Alaska to Newfoundland) south to California and Oregon (western USA) and to Ohio (eastern USA)
Habitat:
Forest areas
Status:
No special concern
Diet:
Squirrels, chipmunks and other small rodents; birds, insects; fruit
Further information about this species may be found on the Animal Diversity Web page for American marten.