Pine martens are a rare sight, but one elusive creature has made Stormont its home. As part of a conservation project, cameras have been set up to monitor the pine marten's movements.
But here's where it gets interesting: this particular pine marten, filmed in the woods behind the Parliament Buildings, has been named Stormy. The fur coats of pine martens can be individually identified by their unique markings on the throat and chest area, known as a 'bib'.
And this is the part most people miss: While pine martens are native to Ireland, they are now considered an endangered species due to habitat loss and hunting. Conservation efforts, like the one at Stormont, are crucial to their survival.
So, what do you think? Is it fascinating to see these rare creatures in our backyards, or do you think we should be more focused on protecting their natural habitats? Share your thoughts in the comments!