As the weather warms and nature comes to life, spring marks the start of an exciting and sometimes challenging time for homeowners. With the rising temperatures, many animals begin to emerge from hibernation, become more active, and search for food, shelter, and new breeding grounds. For homeowners in Green Bay and the surrounding areas, this increase in wildlife activity can lead to potential encounters with critters looking for places to call home. Here's what you can expect in terms of animal activity as the temperatures rise this spring, and how Critter Control of Green Bay can help you manage these situations humanely and effectively.
Rats and Mice: On the Move
As the snow melts and the ground thaws, rats and mice begin to venture outside in search of food and shelter. For those living in homes with access points such as cracks, gaps, and vents, these small creatures can easily enter to seek warmth or nesting locations. Rodents are notorious for nesting in attics, basements, and behind walls—places where they can cause significant damage to insulation, electrical wiring, and structural materials.
Tip: Seal any cracks or gaps around windows, doors, and foundation vents to prevent unwanted rodents from entering. It's also a good idea to check for signs of rodent activity, such as droppings or gnaw marks.
Squirrels: Getting Active in the Warmer Weather
Squirrels are known for being particularly active during the spring months as they search for mates and food. With the warmer weather comes a spike in squirrel activity around homes, especially as they look for places to nest. Many homeowners experience issues with squirrels in their attics, which can lead to significant damage to insulation and roofing.
Tip: If you hear scratching or scampering noises in the attic or walls, you may have a squirrel problem. Make sure to check for openings, and consider having a professional wildlife control expert safely remove and relocate the squirrels before they cause damage.
Raccoons: Seeking Shelter and a Meal
Raccoons are notorious for causing trouble around homes, especially during spring when they are more active. Female raccoons give birth in the spring, and they’re looking for quiet, sheltered places to raise their young. This often leads them to attics, chimneys, and other areas where they can create a cozy nest. In addition, raccoons will be scouring the area for food sources, and they’re not afraid to dig through garbage cans or even enter kitchens if food is left out.
Tip: Secure trash bins with tight-fitting lids and check for any signs of raccoon activity, such as droppings or damage to your roofline. Raccoons are persistent creatures, so it’s important to prevent them from getting inside before they settle in.
Bats: Emergence from Winter Hibernation
While bats are beneficial to the environment by controlling insect populations, they can pose a problem when they decide to roost in attics, walls, or other areas of your home. As temperatures rise in the spring, bats awaken from hibernation and seek out places to roost and reproduce. In Green Bay, bats may be particularly active as they look for dark, undisturbed spaces.
Tip: If you hear unusual scratching or chirping sounds in your attic, it could be a sign of bats. Be cautious, as bats can carry diseases such as rabies. If you suspect you have a bat problem, contact a professional to remove them safely.
Groundhogs: Digging and Grazing
Groundhogs are often one of the first animals to emerge in the spring, and their burrowing behavior can cause significant damage to lawns, gardens, and landscaping. These burrows can create weak spots in your yard, potentially leading to accidents or damage to structures like fences or retaining walls. Groundhogs are also known to eat garden plants and crops, so they can become a nuisance for gardeners.
Tip: Keep an eye out for fresh digging or damage to your yard. If you spot groundhog activity, it’s important to take action quickly before they start to multiply.
Skunks: Seeking Food and Shelter
Skunks become more active in the spring as they emerge from hibernation, looking for food and potential places to settle. While skunks are relatively shy, they can become a nuisance if they enter your home or property. Their burrows can cause damage to lawns, and if threatened, they can spray a foul-smelling defensive spray.
Tip: Skunks are attracted to food sources such as garbage, pet food, and birdseed. Secure these food sources and block any potential entry points to your home, including under decks or sheds where they may choose to burrow.
Birds: Nesting Season Begins
As spring brings warmer weather, birds begin to build nests and lay eggs. While most birds are harmless, they can become a nuisance if they choose to nest in areas that interfere with your home, such as chimneys, vents, or overhangs. Bird droppings can also pose health risks and damage property.
Tip: Install bird screens or other deterrents on chimneys and vents to keep birds from nesting in unwanted places. Regularly check for nests during the spring to prevent any future issues.
How Critter Control of Green Bay Can Help
At Critter Control of Green Bay, we understand how important it is to manage wildlife activity humanely and effectively. Our team is dedicated to providing safe, reliable, and environmentally responsible wildlife control solutions. From inspecting your property for signs of intrusion to expertly removing animals and repairing damage, we offer comprehensive services that ensure your home remains critter-free this spring and beyond.
If you notice signs of animal activity or have any concerns about wildlife on your property, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our experienced technicians are here to help you protect your home from unwanted visitors and provide solutions tailored to your specific needs.