Nilgiri Marten
Discover the rare mountain-dwelling carnivore of India’s Western Ghats.
What Is a Nilgiri Marten?
The Nilgiri marten (Martes [Charronia] gwatkinsii) is the only marten species native to southern India and belongs to the subgenus Charronia.
Found exclusively in the Western Ghats, it has the smallest range of all Guloninae species. This elusive mammal plays a crucial ecological role in one of the world’s most biodiverse regions, yet remains one of the least studied among the various types of marten.
Its range is limited to five fragmented patches across high-elevation forests, where it contributes to forest regeneration and helps control small animal populations. Because of its small population size and restricted distribution, the Nilgiri marten is listed as Vulnerable and faces significant conservation challenges.
Identifying Features and Marten Size
The Nilgiri marten has a deep brown to black coat with a bright yellow or orange throat patch. Adults grow to about 55–65 cm (22–26 in) in body length, with a 40–45 cm (16–18 in) tail, and weigh between 0.9 and 2 kg (2–4.5 pounds). In terms of marten size, it is one of the larger martens and is the largest mustelid found in India.
Among the various types of marten, this species stands out for its more robust build and powerful movement through steep, forested terrain. Its muscular frame and climbing ability allow it to navigate complex forest canopies with ease.
Habitat and Behaviour
The Nilgiri marten lives in the montane forests of the Western Ghats, mainly in evergreen forests and forest-grassland mosaics. It is occasionally found in moist deciduous forests near these areas. Because it relies on well-preserved canopy cover at high elevations, it is especially sensitive to habitat disturbance.
Unlike many other types of marten, it is active during the day and is often seen moving alone or in small groups. The Nilgiri marten forages in both trees and on the ground, feeding on a variety of prey, including rodents, birds, reptiles, cicadas, fruits, seeds, and honey. These behaviours not only support their survival but also aid in seed dispersal and the broader health of montane forest ecosystems.
Conservation and Recovery
IUCN status: Vulnerable
The Nilgiri marten faces several threats, including deforestation, habitat fragmentation caused by roads and dams, and retaliation by beekeepers for raiding bee-boxes.
Despite its ecological importance, the Nilgiri marten has received the least research attention of any Guloninae species. Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection through reserves such as Mukurthi, Silent Valley, and Periyar, as well as enforcement of policies against poaching and development within critical habitats.
Fast Facts About the Nilgiri Marten
The Nilgiri marten is the only one of its kind in India and one of the rarest types of marten globally.
It is diurnal (most active during the day) unlike many nocturnal relatives.
It thrives in high-elevation evergreen forests but sometimes ventures into nearby deciduous areas.
Due to its habit of raiding bee boxes, it occasionally comes into conflict with local beekeepers.
It remains one of the least-studied members of the Guloninae subfamily.