MRTT1 | Beech Marten Box

MRTT1

Application
The beech marten is a specifically protected species in many Dutch provinces. During spatial developments, beech marten shelters may be lost. In such cases, installing a beech marten box can provide an alternative shelter. Beech marten boxes are also suitable for enhancing an existing habitat.

Design

The provision consists of an entrance chamber with two large openings and a main chamber containing a specially insulated maternity chamber. The entire box is fitted with a sloping roof.

The projecting side panels allow the box to be mounted easily onto a wall. The projecting front and rear sections also allow the box to be placed on a horizontal surface without direct contact. The box is supplied with two tubes and two tube holders for optimal installation underneath a pile of branches.

If the provision is installed in a loft space or mounted on a wall, the openings in the entrance chamber can be left open, or one opening can be closed off.

Position
Mustelids use edges as movement routes. These may include building edges such as gutters, downpipes and flat roofs, but also hedges and ditches. Position the beech marten provision in a logical location along a continuous structure for the best chance of success.

Placement
Façade installation:
Mount the provision onto the façade using the fixing openings in the rear panel. A position 10 to 50 cm above a flat roof is particularly suitable.

The box can also be installed higher up, but in that case additional access must be created using a rough-surfaced post. For wall-mounted installation, one of the openings in the entrance chamber can be closed off to prevent unnecessary draughts. Optionally, a small layer of hay can be placed inside the maternity chamber.

Installation underneath a pile of branches:
The provision should be installed on a dry surface. If necessary, a suitable base can be created using a thin layer of gravel or a paving slab.

Place the provision and, if desired, add a small amount of hay to the maternity chamber. Then install the PVC tubes. If required, the box can be covered with a piece of plastic for additional protection.

Next, cover the provision with a pile of leaves and branches, creating a substantial protective heap. For example, place a paving slab underneath the entrance of the PVC tubes to prevent them from becoming overgrown. See the installation instructions in the appendix for further guidance.

Installation in a loft or shed:
Quiet loft spaces or sheds are particularly suitable locations for this provision. Place the box along a wall and make sure there is good access to the box.

Place some hay inside the maternity chamber for additional insulation. If required, the tubes can also be used to make the box accessible only from outside, preventing beech martens from moving through the entire space.