Living in Grand Rapids means enjoying the beauty of Michigan’s natural environment, but it also means sharing that environment with a wide variety of wildlife. While many animals are harmless and even beneficial, some can become a nuisance when they invade homes, attics, crawl spaces, or yards. Here are the top 10 nuisance animals commonly encountered in the Grand Rapids area and what you should know about them.
Raccoons
Raccoons are clever, curious, and incredibly persistent. They often enter attics, garages, and chimneys in search of food or shelter. Once inside, they can cause significant damage to insulation, wiring, and roofing materials. They are also known to raid garbage cans and pet food left outside.
Squirrels
Squirrels are one of the most common wildlife issues in residential neighborhoods. They frequently chew through soffits or vents to gain access to attics, where they build nests and chew on wood and wires. Their constant gnawing can lead to fire hazards and costly repairs.
Bats
Bats are vital to the ecosystem but can become a problem when they roost in homes. Small entry points like vents or gaps in siding allow bats to enter attics, where they leave behind guano that can cause odors and health concerns. Bat removal must be done carefully due to their protected status in Michigan.
Skunks
Skunks are mostly known for their strong odor, but they also dig under porches, decks, and sheds to create dens. They can be aggressive when threatened and may spray pets or humans. In some cases, they carry diseases such as rabies.
Opossums
Opossums are nocturnal scavengers that often rummage through garbage and compost. They are less destructive than some other animals but can still become a nuisance when they take up residence under structures or inside sheds.
Mice
Mice are small but highly invasive. They enter homes through tiny cracks and multiply quickly. Once inside, they contaminate food sources, chew through wiring, and leave droppings that can carry harmful bacteria and allergens.
Rats
Larger and more destructive than mice, rats are a serious problem in urban areas. They can damage insulation, gnaw through electrical wiring, and spread disease. Their presence often indicates a nearby food or water source.
Groundhogs (Woodchucks)
Groundhogs dig large burrows near foundations, fences, or gardens. These burrows can weaken structural supports and lead to landscape damage. They are also known to feast on vegetable gardens and ornamental plants.
Birds
Certain birds like pigeons, starlings, and sparrows can nest in vents, attics, or signs. Their droppings are not only unsightly but can also cause structural damage and spread diseases such as histoplasmosis.
Snakes
While most snakes in Michigan are non-venomous, their presence can still be alarming. Snakes are often attracted to properties with high rodent populations or excessive moisture. They sometimes enter basements or crawl spaces in search of prey or shelter.
Protecting Your Home with Humane Wildlife Control
Critter Control of Grand Rapids specializes in safe and humane removal of all these nuisance animals. Whether you’re dealing with a squirrel in the attic or a raccoon under your deck, our team can inspect, remove, and prevent future wildlife problems using industry best practices.
If you think wildlife has taken up residence on your property, don’t wait until the damage worsens. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and keep your home protected year-round.