The Game Commission is considering reintroducing the American Marten to Pennsylvania, bringing the native species back to the state after a 120-year absence.
The American Marten, which is a weasel, first disappeared because of deforestation and unregulated harvest.
The commission said the animal plays a key role in seed dispersal and controlling the rodent population.
The American Marten is an omnivore that feeds on berries and insects, as well as small mammals and birds.
The species mainly currently can be found in Canada and Alaska, northern New England and the Great Lakes region, and south through the Rocky Mountain and Sierra Nevada Mountain ranges.
A study found reintroducing the animal would create a healthier forest and environment.
It’s reported that the Marten won’t be a danger to people, pets, or livestock.
The Game Commission is considering a plan to return the species to the forest of Pennsylvania’s woods. It’s not a guarantee yet, but by this time next year, the Marten could be roaming the forest.
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