Increased Raccoon Activity as Summer Ends and Fall Approaches

As the warm days of summer begin to fade and the cooler nights of fall creep in, many homeowners in Grand Rapids start to notice a familiar nuisance showing up more frequently. Raccoon activity tends to spike in late summer and early fall, and this behavior is no accident. It is part of a natural cycle that can have very real consequences for homes and properties if not addressed early.

Why Raccoons Become More Active in Late Summer

Raccoons are opportunistic animals. As summer ends, they begin preparing for the challenges of fall and winter. Food sources in the wild may start to diminish, so raccoons become bolder in searching for easy meals. Garbage cans, pet food, compost piles, and unsecured bird feeders can quickly become targets.

In addition to food, raccoons are also looking for safe and warm places to den. This often means attics, chimneys, crawl spaces, sheds, and even wall voids. Young raccoons born in the spring are now old enough to start venturing out on their own, adding to the noticeable increase in activity during this time of year.

Signs of Raccoon Activity Around Your Home

If raccoons are frequenting your property, you may notice:

Tipped-over trash bins
Scratches on siding or trees near your home
Tracks or muddy paw prints near entry points
Noises in the attic or walls, especially at night
Droppings near the foundation or in the attic

If left unchecked, raccoons can cause serious damage. They can rip insulation, chew through wires, and create unsanitary living conditions through their droppings and nesting materials.

Why Fall Is a Critical Time for Prevention

Once temperatures start to drop, raccoons become even more determined to find long-term shelter. If they gain access to your home in late summer or early fall, they are likely to stay put through the winter. Taking preventive action now is key to avoiding costly repairs and health risks later on.

How to Deter Raccoons from Your Property

There are several steps you can take to make your home less inviting to raccoons:

Secure trash cans with tight-fitting lids
Feed pets indoors and remove leftover food
Clean up fallen fruit or birdseed
Seal potential entry points in the roofline, soffits, and vents
Trim back tree limbs that touch or hang over your home

While DIY measures can help, raccoons are clever and persistent. Professional help is often necessary for safe removal and exclusion.

Get Expert Help from Critter Control of Grand Rapids

If you suspect raccoons have taken up residence on your property, do not wait until winter. The earlier the issue is addressed, the easier it is to resolve. At Critter Control of Grand Rapids, we specialize in humane raccoon removal and long-term prevention. Our trained technicians will inspect your property, remove unwanted wildlife safely, and secure your home against future intrusions.