As the cold of winter fades and warmer temperatures sweep across Hamilton County, wildlife begins to stir and become more active. Spring is a vibrant season for many creatures, as they emerge from hibernation, mate, and search for food. For homeowners, understanding these springtime patterns can be crucial for preventing potential wildlife invasions and ensuring your home remains critter-free. In this article, we’ll explore common wildlife behaviors and signs to look out for as the season shifts and provide tips on how to handle any encounters.
Increased Activity from Hibernators
One of the most noticeable changes during spring is the awakening of hibernating animals. Animals like squirrels, raccoons, and groundhogs, which tend to sleep through the cold winter months, become more active as the temperatures rise.
Squirrels: As tree-dwelling mammals, squirrels begin to search for food and nesting sites as the leaves start to bud. They may move into attics, chimneys, or crawl spaces if they find a warm, sheltered spot. Keep an eye out for gnaw marks on your house or signs of nesting materials in your attic.
Raccoons: Raccoons are notorious for seeking shelter in attics and basements during the spring. They often emerge from hibernation looking for mates and a place to raise their young. If you notice raccoon droppings around your property or hear scratching sounds in your attic, it’s time to inspect your home for potential entry points.
Groundhogs: These burrowing creatures begin to emerge from their dens in the spring. If you have a garden or yard with soft, well-drained soil, groundhogs may begin to dig tunnels that could lead to damage. Look for fresh burrow entrances near your property’s foundation or garden beds.
Birds Building Nests
Birds are some of the first animals to take advantage of the spring weather. In Hamilton County, you may notice an increase in chirping and flapping around your home. Many species will start building nests in the eaves of homes, under decks, or in shrubs around your property.
Pest Birds: While birds like robins and sparrows are generally harmless, certain species like pigeons and starlings can create a mess and cause damage. Pigeons, for instance, may nest in your attic, leaving behind droppings that can be harmful to your health and deteriorate the structure of your home. Early detection and prevention can help you avoid the headache of bird infestations.
Preventing Nesting: If you notice birds attempting to nest in or around your home, consider installing bird deterrents like mesh netting, spikes, or reflective devices. These can help prevent them from taking up residence near your property.
Mating Season for Many Mammals
Spring is mating season for a variety of mammals, and this often leads to increased activity. Mating and nest-building behaviors can prompt animals to venture closer to homes in search of shelter.
Skunks: Skunks are most active during mating season in early spring. They may begin searching for mates, as well as nesting sites. They often seek shelter under decks, sheds, or in crawl spaces. If you notice strong odors or see skunks wandering near your home, take precautions to seal up any potential entry points.
Rabbits and Deer: While rabbits and deer are usually seen grazing in fields or wooded areas, their activity increases during spring as they forage for food and reproduce. While they are generally harmless, deer may damage landscaping, and rabbits can cause problems by digging up gardens. Keeping your yard well-fenced can help protect your plants from these herbivores.
Signs of Baby Wildlife
As spring progresses, many animals give birth to their young. If you spot baby wildlife in or around your home, it’s essential to exercise caution. The presence of young animals often signals that the parents are nearby, and they may be protective.
Fawns and Other Young Mammals: Baby deer (fawns), raccoons, and squirrels may be seen alone, as their mothers often leave them while they forage for food. Never approach a baby animal; it’s best to leave them undisturbed. If you suspect that a baby animal has been abandoned, call a local wildlife rescue organization for guidance.
How to Prevent Spring Wildlife Intrusions
While spring is a beautiful season, it’s also a busy time for wildlife, and many animals look for shelter or food close to your home. Here are some steps you can take to prevent wildlife from invading your space:
Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for potential entry points such as holes in the roof, gaps in window screens, and cracks in walls. Repairing these areas can help keep wildlife from entering your home.
Trim Trees and Shrubs: Overhanging branches or dense bushes can provide easy access to your roof or attic for squirrels and raccoons. Trimming back branches can reduce the likelihood of animals gaining entry to your home.
Keep Food Sources Away: Avoid leaving pet food or birdseed outdoors, as this can attract animals like raccoons, skunks, and squirrels.
Install Deterrents: Bird spikes, mesh barriers, and motion-activated lights can deter unwanted wildlife from nesting on your property.
Call the Experts
If you’re concerned about wildlife entering your home or causing damage, don’t hesitate to contact Critter Control of Hamilton County. Our team of experts can provide safe and effective solutions to keep your home critter-free this spring and beyond.
For more tips or to schedule an inspection, call us today!