American Marten

American Marten

Martes americana

wildlife

How to Identify

American martens are slender, weasel-like mammals with a long, bushy tail and short legs. They have a rich brown fur coat with a pale yellow or orange patch on their throat. They are roughly the size of a house cat, weighing between 1.5 and 3.5 pounds.

Signs of Infestation

While not typically infesting homes, martens may leave droppings or urine markings around your property. Look for small, elongated droppings containing fur or bones. You might also detect a musky odor, especially near outbuildings or wooded areas close to your Myrtle Beach home.

Health Risks

Martens are not a direct threat to human health, but like any wild animal, they can carry diseases such as rabies. Contact with their droppings can also pose a risk of bacterial contamination. In Myrtle Beach, it's important to keep a safe distance from any wild animal and avoid direct contact.

Our Treatment Method

As a SC Department of Pesticide Regulation-licensed company, MBPC does not handle relocation of wildlife. However, we can advise on exclusion methods and habitat modification to discourage martens from your Grand Strand property. Contact a licensed wildlife removal specialist for trapping and relocation assistance.

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Prevention Tips

Secure garbage cans and compost bins to prevent martens from accessing food sources near your Myrtle Beach home. Trim tree branches that overhang your roof to reduce access points. Seal any potential entry points into outbuildings or crawl spaces.

Habitat

American martens prefer forested areas but can sometimes be found near residential areas in search of food. In the Myrtle Beach area, they may inhabit wooded areas, especially near salt marshes or tidal creeks. They are most active at dawn and dusk.

Peak activity: Year-Round

Identification Photos

Frequently Asked Questions About American Marten

While generally avoiding confrontation, martens may prey on small pets if given the opportunity. Keep small dogs and cats indoors, especially at dawn and dusk, to minimize the risk of encounters near your Myrtle Beach home.

Martens are attracted to properties with readily available food sources, such as unsecured garbage, pet food, or bird feeders. They may also seek shelter in outbuildings or crawl spaces. Removing these attractants can help deter them from your Myrtle Beach property.

Signs of a marten presence include droppings, musky odors, and disturbed garbage. You may also hear scratching or rustling noises in your attic or crawl space. Contact a wildlife professional for a proper assessment of your Myrtle Beach home.

MBPC focuses on pest control and does not provide wildlife removal services. However, we can offer advice on preventing marten intrusions. Contact a licensed wildlife removal specialist in the Myrtle Beach area for trapping and relocation assistance, ensuring compliance with SC regulations.

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