First Evidence of the Presence of the Marbled Polecat Vormela peregusna (Guldenstadt, 1770) (Carnivora: Mustelidae) in Montenegro

The marbled polecat Vormela peregusna is poorly studied throughout its distribution range in Europe. In Montenegro, there was no clear evidence of the presence of marbled polecat. although there was a high probability according to its mapped geographical range. It was presumed that if the species would occur in the country, it would be in the eastern part near the border of Serbia. Additionally, there are two former records for Montenegro but outside of the assumed distribution range on the Balkans. However, these records are insufficient to confirm its presence in Montenegro. With the help of the local people in the Play Municipality (north-eastern part of the country), we collected evidence of the presence of the marbled polecat in Montenegro. According to the data from the past, this species has not been expected to be present there. Considering its classification as Vulnerable by the IUCN and its recognition in Annexes II and IV of the EU Habitats Directive, collected records call for the need of systematic research to determine conservation and legal status of this species in Montenegro.