Beech marten

The beech marten (Martes foina), also known as the white-breasted marten, is a species native to much of Europe and Central Asia. It is superficially similar to the European pine marten but differs in its smaller size and habitat preferences. While the pine marten is a forest specialist, the beech marten is more generalist and adaptable, living in both open and forested habitats.

It’s a secretive and incredibly cute creature, mainly active at night. I had the chance to encounter one for a few seconds. It stood briefly by the roadside, and in an instant, disappeared back into the thicket.