Which type of trees do American martens prefer?

American martens prefer a mix of spruce-fir conifers and hardwoods due to the diverse habitat these trees provide. This preference is linked to their need for shelter and food sources, as the dense canopy of evergreen trees offers protection from weather and predators, while mixed hardwoods provide a variety of prey and foraging opportunities.

The mature coniferous forests provide crucial components of martens' habitats, including den sites and abundant prey such as small mammals. Additionally, the diversity of mixed hardwood stands contributes to a more complex ecosystem, facilitating the martens' requirements for hunting and nesting sites.

The other choices focus on specific types of trees that may not offer the same level of habitat complexity and resource availability, making the choice of conifer and mixed hardwoods the most suitable for American martens.