There are many assumptions about rodents and martens that do more harm than good in practice. Those who believe the wrong things react too late, fight in the wrong place, or wonder why the infestation keeps coming back.
Here are the most common myths – clearly and understandably debunked.
Myths about mice
Myth 1: "Mice only come into dirty apartments."
False. Mice seek warmth, shelter, and food – not "dirt." Even very clean households or businesses can be affected if there are access points and hiding places.
Myth 2: "If I see one mouse, it's just that one."
Almost always false. Mice rarely live alone. Seeing one often means: There is a nest or more animals nearby – you only see the one brave enough.
Myth 3: "Mice run everywhere all over the place."
False. Mice use fixed pathways, mostly along walls and edges. Exactly there, droppings or rodent trails appear.
Myth 4: "Mice just die if you do nothing."
False. Mice reproduce quickly. A small initial infestation almost always grows without countermeasures – not shrinks.
Myths about rats
Myth 1: "Rats only live in the sewer."
False. Sewers are a habitat, but rats also use basements, garbage areas, storage rooms, suspended ceilings, and garden areas.
Myth 2: "You see rats immediately when they are there."
False. Rats are extremely cautious and nocturnal. If you see one during the day, the infestation is often already advanced.
Myth 3: "Rats only go to large garbage piles."
False. Even small food sources are enough: pet food, organic waste bin, open bags, food scraps, compost.
Myth 4: "Laying poison = problem solved."
False and risky. Without addressing the causes (access points, food, nests), new animals will come back. There are also resistances and secondary dangers for pets/non-target animals.
Myth 5: "Rats don't fit through small openings."
False. Rats squeeze through very small gaps – depending on the species, a few centimeters are enough. A tiny hole can be the entrance.
Myth 6: "If there are no droppings, there are no rats."
Deceptive. Droppings can lie in cavities or along hidden paths. No visible traces does not automatically mean no infestation.
Myths about martens
Myth 1: "Martens bite cars because they are hungry."
False. The main reason is territorial behavior. Martens react to foreign smells in the engine compartment – this triggers aggression and chewing.
Myth 2: "Martens are only a car problem."
False. Martens also go into attics, sheds, or suspended ceilings, especially when it is warm, quiet, and dry.
Myth 3: "A marten always stays in the same territory."
Not reliable. Territories change, especially during mating season. Also, several animals can use the same zones.
Myth 5: "Once a marten is gone, it's all over."
False. Smells, pathways, and attractive retreats remain – and attract new animals.
Myth 6: "Martens only make a little noise."
Underestimated. They can tear insulation, leave droppings/urine stains, and cause expensive consequential damage – especially in the roof area.
Brief summary
The biggest misconceptions about mice, rats, and martens start with "That only happens elsewhere" or "You can see it immediately."
In truth, three basic rules apply:
- Visual contact is rarely an early sign.
- Cleanliness alone does not prevent infestation.
- Access, warmth, moisture, and hiding places are the real drivers.
