As the winter chill sets in and we prepare for the cold months ahead, it's not just us humans who are seeking warmth and shelter. Wildlife in Hamilton County, like many other areas, is also adapting to the colder temperatures, which often means they’ll be looking for cozy spots to take refuge. Unfortunately, this can lead to uninvited guests in your attic, basement, or other hidden spaces around your home.
To help you stay ahead of these wintertime visitors, Critter Control of Hamilton County is here to guide you through the types of animals you might encounter during the colder months and how to prepare your home for the seasonal influx of wildlife.
Common Winter Wildlife in Hamilton County
When winter sets in, certain animals are more likely to seek shelter indoors or near homes as they search for warmth and food. Here’s a rundown of the most common critters you may encounter during the colder months:
Rats and Mice
Rodents like rats and mice are infamous for invading homes in search of food, warmth, and safety during the winter. They can squeeze through tiny cracks and gaps in your home’s exterior, making them difficult to keep out. Once inside, they’ll nest in attics, walls, or basements, and cause significant damage to insulation, wires, and even your food supply.
Signs of a Rodent Infestation:
- Droppings near food sources
- Scratching noises in the walls or ceilings
- Nests made of shredded paper, fabric, or insulation
Squirrels
Squirrels are active all year round, but they tend to seek shelter in attics or other hidden spaces during the winter months. They are particularly good at chewing through rooflines, soffits, and vents to gain access to your home. If a squirrel gets inside, it can cause extensive damage and even pose a fire hazard by gnawing on wires.
Signs of a Squirrel Infestation:
- Scratching or scurrying sounds in the attic
- Chewed wires or insulation
- Visible damage to eaves or rooflines
Raccoons
Raccoons are notorious for invading homes in search of a warm place to spend the winter. They are often attracted to attics, chimneys, and basements, especially if there’s an easy entry point like a broken vent or chimney cap. Raccoons can cause significant damage by tearing apart insulation and chewing through wires, plus they can transmit diseases such as rabies.
Signs of a Raccoon Infestation:
- Noises at night, especially loud thumping or scratching
- Foul odors from waste or urine
- Visible damage to vents, chimneys, or roof areas
Bats
Although bats are generally more active in warmer months, some species may roost in attics and other sheltered places over the winter, especially if your home is near wooded areas or water sources. Bats can cause health concerns because of their droppings, which can harbor fungal infections like histoplasmosis.
Signs of a Bat Infestation:
- Sightings of bats entering or exiting at dusk or dawn
- Strange smells or stains in the attic
- Droppings (guano) near entry points
Opossums
Opossums tend to be less active in winter but will still search for shelter. These nocturnal creatures may enter your home through cracks or openings in the foundation, seeking a warm spot to hibernate. Opossums are opportunistic feeders, so they’ll also be on the lookout for food sources like garbage or pet food.
Signs of an Opossum Infestation:
- Noises at night, particularly scratching or rustling
- Tracks or droppings near entry points
- Damage to garbage cans or pet food containers
How to Prepare for Winter Wildlife Intruders
Knowing which animals to expect is only part of the equation; the next step is ensuring your home is properly secured to prevent wildlife from entering in the first place. Here’s how you can prepare:
Seal All Entry Points
Animals are experts at finding small cracks and gaps. Inspect your home’s exterior for potential entry points, including around doors, windows, rooflines, and vents. Seal any gaps with caulk, steel wool, or metal flashing. Don’t forget to check your chimney and attic vents to make sure they’re properly sealed.
Trim Trees and Shrubs
Squirrels, raccoons, and other animals often use trees and shrubs as a way to gain access to your home. Trim back any tree branches that are close to your roofline or windows to prevent wildlife from using them as a bridge to enter your home.
Inspect and Maintain Your Roof
Check your roof for missing shingles or signs of damage. Small openings or loose flashing can become access points for critters looking to nest inside. Make sure chimneys are fitted with a cap, and consider adding wire mesh over vents to keep animals out.
Store Food Properly
Rodents, raccoons, and opossums will scavenge for food if it’s easily accessible. Store pet food, birdseed, and other food items in sealed containers. Clean up any spills or crumbs promptly to avoid attracting wildlife to your home.
Remove Clutter from the Basement and Attic
Basements and attics are prime spots for critters to nest. Clear out any clutter and ensure that these areas are tidy and sealed off from the rest of your living space. If possible, store belongings in plastic bins rather than cardboard boxes, as rodents tend to chew through cardboard.
Use Wildlife Deterrents
Some homeowners use wildlife deterrents to make their property less appealing. For example, motion-sensing lights or ultrasonic devices can deter nocturnal animals. Some scents, such as peppermint oil, may also act as a natural repellent for rodents.
What to Do if You Have a Wildlife Problem
If you've already noticed signs of an infestation or are concerned about potential wildlife issues in your home, it’s important to act quickly. Trying to handle wildlife problems on your own can be risky and ineffective. That’s where the experts at Critter Control of Hamilton County come in.
We specialize in humane wildlife control and exclusion, safely removing animals from your home without harm. Our team will assess the situation, identify potential entry points, and implement a plan to keep critters out for good. We’ll also help you clean up any mess and make repairs to prevent future infestations.
Winter in Hamilton County can bring some unwelcome guests, but with the right preparation, you can minimize the risk of wildlife getting too cozy in your home. From rodents to raccoons, the key is to seal entry points, secure food sources, and be vigilant in maintaining your property throughout the season.
If you're dealing with a wildlife issue or want to make sure your home is ready for winter, Critter Control of Hamilton County is here to help. Contact us today for a consultation and ensure your home remains safe and critter-free all winter long.