The pine marten (Martes martes) as a symbol of 2024 in Ukraine

An overview of the most interesting features of the European pine marten is presented. The review is compiled in continuation of the tradition of preparing a selection of facts about various iconic animals of the fauna of Ukraine in the cycle ‘21 facts about unique creatures’. The information is divided into four sections: taxonomic block (3 items), morphophysiological block (5 items), behavioural and ecological block (8 items), and cultural block (5 items). Popular Internet sources about martens important for dissemination of knowledge about these animals are also presented, as well as an overview of recent scientific publications about martens in Ukraine and public events related to these animals. A thematic web page based on this article has been created on the ‘Theriological School’ website of the Ukrainian Theriological Society of the NAS of Ukraine.