You deter a stone marten by making its spot unpleasant and then closing off the access. For a car, that means sound, light and scent in the engine bay; for a loft or shed, first deter and then seal the openings under the roof tiles. For both you will find here: the Knock Pest animal deterrent for cars, Knock Pest deterrents on battery and solar power, Mustolet Spray, the Shield Up Stay Away Weideset and screening from VentiStrip.
Marten under the bonnet
Martens crawl into a warm engine bay and sometimes bite cables and hoses. The Knock Pest animal deterrent for cars runs on 12 volts and combines an ultrasonic sound with two flashing white LEDs. It comes with wiring and mounting materials and, according to the manufacturer, can also be fitted in a motorbike or agricultural vehicle. Mustolet Spray, a scent spray, is sprayed on cables and insulation material and, according to the manufacturer, repeated once a month or every 1000 km.
Marten in the loft or shed
- Deter: a Knock Pest animal deterrent with motion sensor, on batteries or solar power, has a range of about 8 to 10 metres. Use Mustolet Spray from the inside outwards.
- Wait: make sure the marten has really gone and that no young are left behind.
- Seal: a VentiBrush screening brush behind the first tile batten or a metal VentiStrip eaves comb closes off the space under the tiles while still letting air through.
Around a yard or chicken coop, you set out the Shield Up tubes. The liquid gives off a burnt smell; according to the manufacturer, one filling lasts about three months. Use biocides safely. Always read the label and product information before use.
Stone martens and the rules
The stone marten is a protected animal in many places. Rules may also apply to deterring and sealing, especially if there could be young. Those rules differ by country; check with the competent authority beforehand. Fidello does not give advice on catching or killing martens.
See also: screening and proofing, screening under solar panels, rats and mice and moles and martens.
Frequently asked questions
Does a marten deterrent fit every car?
The Knock Pest deterrent is made for a 12-volt system. If in doubt, have it connected by a garage.
How do I know if there is a marten in the loft?
Thumping at night, droppings and remains of prey or eggs are the familiar signs. A marten is mainly active at night.
How often do I need to reapply Mustolet Spray?
For a car, once a month or after about 1000 km, according to the manufacturer. Outdoors, spray in sheltered spots so that rain does not wash it away.