14. Rats Abandoning Ship
Few signs alarmed sailors more than rats fleeing a ship. This superstition held that if the ship’s rats suddenly disappeared, disaster—such as sinking or fire—was imminent. In some real-life cases, rats escaping proved to be a true warning of trouble below deck. Sailors would take such omens seriously, often investigating for leaks or structural issues immediately. Explore the origins of this maritime saying.
