diff --git a/tests/monster_test.cpp b/tests/monster_test.cpp
index c649836738269..b55772b740310 100644
--- a/tests/monster_test.cpp
+++ b/tests/monster_test.cpp
@@ -27,6 +27,7 @@ static int moves_to_destination( const std::string &monster_type,
                                  const tripoint &start, const tripoint &end )
 {
     clear_creatures();
+    clear_npcs();
     REQUIRE( g->num_creatures() == 1 ); // the player
     monster &test_monster = spawn_test_monster( monster_type, start );
     // Get it riled up and give it a goal.