Nilgiri marten

The Nilgiri marten (Martes gwatkinsii) is a species of marten, a weasel-like carnivore, found only in India's Western Ghats. It is similar in appearance to the yellow-throated marten but is slightly longer, with a body length of 55 to 65 cm (22 to 26 inches) and a tail of 40 to 45 cm (16 to 18 inches). Its throat patch can range from yellow to orange.1

Martens, in general, are known for their slender bodies, short legs, rounded ears, and bushy tails. They are forest-dwelling and solitary animals that are adept climbers. Their diet consists of animals, fruit, and carrion. While most marten species are considered of least concern by the IUCN, the Nilgiri marten is listed as vulnerable due to past deforestation and hunting, though population decline has slowed with conservation efforts in India.1