Late Summer Pests in Grand Rapids

As summer winds down and the days begin to shorten, many residents of Grand Rapids find themselves dealing with an unexpected surge in wildlife and pest activity. Late summer may feel like the tail end of pest season, but for many nuisance animals, it is actually peak time to seek shelter, forage aggressively, and prepare for the coming cooler months.

Why Pests Are Active in Late Summer

Late summer creates a perfect storm for increased pest activity. Temperatures are still warm, food sources are abundant, and animals begin to prepare for fall by finding shelter. This often leads them straight into homes, garages, attics, and crawl spaces. Additionally, human activity outdoors tends to decrease as summer ends, giving wildlife more freedom to roam.

Common Late Summer Pests in West Michigan

Several types of pests are especially active in Grand Rapids during August and early September. Here are a few of the most common ones we deal with at this time of year:

Raccoons
Raccoons are incredibly intelligent and resourceful. As food sources in the wild begin to shift, raccoons often turn to human homes and trash cans. Late summer is when many juveniles leave their mothers and begin exploring on their own, which can increase sightings and break-ins.

Bats
Bat activity is high during late summer because colonies are still active and young bats are beginning to fly. They often seek warm, safe roosting spots like attics and chimneys. In Michigan, bats are protected species, so professional removal is essential.

Squirrels
Both gray and flying squirrels may begin early preparations for fall by looking for warm places to nest. They can squeeze through very small openings and are known for causing damage to insulation and wiring.

Wasps and Hornets
Aggressive stinging insects such as yellow jackets and hornets reach their peak populations in late summer. Their colonies are large, and they become more territorial. Nests near homes, decks, or sheds can become a serious hazard.

Skunks
While not as commonly seen, skunks can start looking for secure places to den as summer ends. They often burrow under decks, porches, and sheds. Their presence is usually identified by smell before sight.

Signs You Might Have a Problem

Watch for unusual noises in your attic, droppings, foul smells, damaged insulation, or visible nests around your home’s exterior. Wasps and hornets will often be seen flying in and out of a small entry point. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to act quickly before a small problem becomes a big one.

How to Prevent Late Summer Pests

To reduce your chances of a pest problem, consider these preventative steps:

Seal all cracks and holes in your home's foundation and roofline
Keep garbage bins securely closed
Trim tree branches that touch your home or roof
Avoid leaving pet food or birdseed outside
Schedule a home inspection from a wildlife professional

Get Help from Critter Control of Grand Rapids

If you are noticing signs of wildlife or pest activity in or around your home this late summer, do not wait until the colder months force animals deeper inside. Critter Control of Grand Rapids specializes in humane wildlife removal and exclusion services. Our trained technicians can identify entry points, safely remove animals, and help prevent future invasions.