Pine martens are expected to be reintroduced on Dartmoor this year as part of measures to restore nature.

The creature, once Britain’s second most common carnivore, disappeared from Dartmoor and Exmoor 150 years ago because of a loss of habitat and persecution.

They are seen as a vital missing part in thriving ecosystems and have been introduced in Mid Wales and the Forest of Dean, with plans also to release them in Somerset.