In a challenging economic environment, ecotourism can bring in much-needed business and income to support future prosperity in rural areas.

In Scotland, where pine martens are thriving, there has been a surge in interest from visitors wanting to see pine martens. This is contributing to the estimated £276 million generated by wildlife tourism through visitor centres, local hotels, B&Bs, and holiday cottages, as well as through wildlife tours and holidays that offer pine marten viewing opportunities and experiences.

Ecotourism involving pine martens is already happening in Ireland through Glory Glory Hides: a local business in County Laois that offers a number of wildlife hides to hire for wildlife watching and photography. These hides are regularly visited by pine martens, along with a wealth of other wildlife. Further information is available on the company’s Facebook page.