HAS A MARTEN MADE ITSELF IN YOUR HOUSE? WE'LL TELL YOU HOW TO GET RID OF THE PEST!
The domestic marten (also known as a stone marten) does not differ in its needs from other animals and therefore looks for a safe place where it can settle down, find protection and raise its young. It prefers places that offer protection from the weather, are inaccessible to other predators and are close to food sources. These conditions are perfectly met by proximity to humans, which is why martens like to settle in attics, barns, garages, etc.
MARTEN DETERRENCE
The pest control market offers a wide range of options when it comes to repelling or driving away martens. One tried and tested method is the use of ultrasonic devices, also known as marten deterrents. Here, too, there are different variants that vary depending on the location (in the house, outdoors or in the car) and the severity of the infestation. There are ultrasonic devices that cover different protection areas (the range is between 60 and 800m2) and differ in their frequency (from 7kHz to 65kHz). Depending on the price, there are also marten deterrents that have a built-in potentiometer that allows you to adjust the frequency of the emitted waves depending on the type of pest. In some cases, it makes sense to get an ultrasonic device that runs on batteries. Such a device can then be set up in rooms that do not have a power connection.
The battle between humans and pests is a dynamic process, because even the unwanted guests adapt to the methods of deterrence. It can happen that a family of martens simply gets used to an ultrasonic frequency. Complex ultrasonic devices that have a pre-programmed ultrasonic signal change have proven to be particularly effective, as the small predators cannot get used to it. At this point we would also like to give you a valuable tip: when buying an ultrasonic device for marten deterrence, do not be misled by the maximum effective area stated on the packaging. What do we mean by that? If you set up the devices in the house, you will not be able to use the stated effective area anyway, because ultrasound does not penetrate the walls. Therefore, you should set up at least one deterrent device in every room where martens are present or where you suspect they are. It is important that the marten deterrents are placed correctly so that they form an effective barrier against further marten visits to your house.
When buying an ultrasonic device to drive away martens, pay more attention to the functions and complexity of the frequencies than to the specified area of effect. For private use, we recommend the ultrasonic devices from PEST-X and ANTYKUNA. With these marten deterrents, you have the option of adjusting the strength of the frequencies yourself (from weak to strong).
WHAT ARE THE COSTS OF MARTEN DEFENSE?
In addition to purchasing a good ultrasound device, you should also factor in the electricity costs. The marten deterrents are only effective if they are on all the time. This is the only way to create an active marten deterrent and the small predators cannot make themselves comfortable in your home or are disturbed by the changing frequencies and start looking for a new home. The ultrasound devices use less electricity than a switched off television and are therefore a very small burden on your wallet.
EFFECTIVE PROTECTION AGAINST MARTENS
In order to successfully combat a marten infestation, you have to proceed systematically. The ultrasound devices are the basis, which can be supplemented with other measures. These include so-called marten mats. These are animal-friendly, but prevent the pests from entering your house. The marten mats are available in different sizes and can be attached to the fence, walls or roof beams, for example.
Martens like to climb up the gutters into the attic. You can easily prevent them from accessing the downpipe by installing marten protection. There are specially designed marten protection belts with spikes that are easy to attach and make it impossible for the animals to climb up. If you don't like the downpipe protection, you can always use marten brushes that are invisible and placed in the gutters.
In addition to marten deterrents and marten belts, it is also worth using chemical marten repellents in powder or spray form. These are usually natural scents that irritate the pests and make them uncomfortable.
HUMANE MARTEN TRAPS
Getting rid of martens can sometimes be particularly difficult. Before you spend more money on existing deterrent methods, give a live trap a try. Sometimes you have to catch the pest and drive it out if it doesn't want to leave your house on its own. Live traps are a humane form of animal trap that doesn't harm the pest and is very reliable. The robust construction means the animal cannot escape and the trap mechanism closes immediately when the marten enters the cage. A live trap usually has a handle that allows you to carry the cage without being bitten. If a marten runs into a live trap, you can release it into the wild at least 10 km away from your house.
Summary
- Disturb his peace with an ultrasound device
- Use powders or sprays whose smell disturbs the martens
- Build a protective barrier with marten belts and gutter brushes
- Catch the pests with a live trap and drive them far away
