As temperatures drop and leaves begin to change, many animals around Grand Rapids start searching for warm, safe places to spend the colder months. Unfortunately, homes, garages, and attics often make perfect shelters for wildlife looking to escape the chill. Understanding which animals are most active in fall and how to prevent them from moving in can save you time, money, and frustration.
Why Fall Brings More Wildlife Activity
During the fall, animals are focused on two things: finding food and preparing for winter. As their natural food sources become scarce, they begin to explore neighborhoods for new opportunities. Many species also seek dry, insulated places to build nests or dens before the snow arrives. The result is a noticeable increase in wildlife encounters around homes throughout West Michigan.
Squirrels in Attics and Eaves
Squirrels are some of the most common fall intruders in the Grand Rapids area. They are excellent climbers and can easily access rooftops and vents. Once inside an attic, they often chew through insulation and wiring while building nests for the winter. Early detection is important because squirrel damage can quickly become a fire or electrical hazard.
Raccoons Seeking Shelter
Raccoons are strong, intelligent, and persistent. In the fall, they look for safe, dark spaces to den and raise their young. Chimneys, crawl spaces, and attics often provide exactly what they need. Homeowners might notice tipped-over garbage cans or scratching sounds at night. Raccoons can be aggressive when cornered, so it is best to call a professional for safe removal.
Bats Preparing for Winter
Fall is also when bats look for roosting spots before hibernation begins. Attics, barns, and wall voids can become temporary homes for colonies. While bats play a valuable role in controlling insects, they should never be handled due to the risk of disease. Humane bat removal and exclusion can keep both the animals and your family safe.
Rodents Moving Indoors
Mice and rats often become a problem in the fall when temperatures drop. These small invaders can squeeze through gaps as small as a dime and multiply quickly once inside. Signs of rodent activity include droppings, gnaw marks, and scratching sounds in walls. Sealing entry points and maintaining a clean environment can go a long way toward preventing infestations.
Skunks and Other Ground Dwellers
Skunks, opossums, and groundhogs may dig under decks or porches to create warm burrows. While they are less likely to enter homes, their digging can damage foundations and landscaping. Skunk odors can also linger for weeks if the animals feel threatened. Preventing access to crawl spaces and sealing gaps near sheds or decks is key.
Preventing Wildlife Intrusions
Homeowners can take several proactive steps to reduce wildlife problems in the fall. Trim tree branches away from roofs, inspect vents and chimneys for openings, and seal cracks or gaps around the foundation. Keep garbage cans tightly closed and store pet food indoors. Scheduling a professional home inspection can help identify hidden vulnerabilities before animals find them.
Call the Local Experts
If you suspect wildlife activity around your property, Critter Control of Grand Rapids can help. Our trained technicians specialize in humane wildlife removal, exclusion, and damage repair. We work with homeowners to keep animals safe while protecting your home from costly damage.
Contact Critter Control of Grand Rapids today to schedule a fall inspection or wildlife removal service. A quick response now can prevent bigger problems as winter approaches.