Once-endangered carnivorous species such as otters, polecats and pine martens have staged a remarkable comeback in Britain since the 1960s, a study shows

The fortunes of otter, pine marten and polecat populations in Britain have “markedly improved” since the 1960s according to new research. Each has bounced back from near extinction, meaning the only carnivorous mammal that remains in danger of being wiped out in Britain is the wildcat. Its Scottish population is at risk from hybridisation with domestic cats.

The findings came in February in a report released by scientists at Exeter University, Vincent Wildlife Trust and the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology. They discovered that otters have almost completely recolonised Great Britain, polecats have expanded their range in southern Britain from Wales, and pine martens have expanded their range from the Scottish Highlands.

Badger populations are estimated to have doubled since the 1980s, helped by a decline in persecution since their legal protection in 1973 and protection of setts in 1992. Foxes, weasels and stoats also enjoy improved fortunes.