Nuisance wildlife and rodents become a problem when they establish themselves in your home or on your property. They can pose a danger to you and your family and damage your house.
These critters have adapted to live within a human environment. They need resources to satisfy their basic needs like food, water, and shelter. People can provide all of these.
Depending on the time of year, different critters are more likely to be a nuisance. However, it is important to remember any of these animals can be a nuisance at any time of year.
Spring
Nuisance Wildlife in Spring
Influences to Animal Behavior
Temperatures rise and animal activity goes up after dormant winter. Mammals give birth in the spring so female animals are looking for safe places to create dens or nest to give birth.
Most Common Wildlife/Rodents
· Squirrels
· Raccoons
· Opossums
· Mice/Rats
· Muskrats
Summer
Nuisance Wildlife in Summer
Influences to Animal Behavior
Animals have given birth in the spring are now raising their young. Female mammals are providing food for their young. Eventually young will grow and start gathering their own food.
Most Common Wildlife/Rodents
· Bats
· Rats
· Mice
· Opossums
· Chipmunks
· Birds -Chimney Swifts, Woodpeckers, Pigeons
· Burrowing animals – moles, gophers
Autumn
Nuisance Wildlife in the Fall
Influences to Animal Behavior
Temperatures cooling and critters are preparing for winter. Some animals will hibernate or migrate to escape the cold Canadian winters. For the animals that do neither, they prepare for winter.
Some animals eat more to increase fat stores. Other animals like squirrels create food caches. They’re also looking for safe places to shelter from winter weather.
Most Common Wildlife/Rodents
· Rats
· Mice
· Squirrels
· Skunks
Winter
Nuisance Wildlife in Winter
Influences to Animal Behavior
Rats and mice stay active year round. They need warm places close to food sources. Your house provides both.
Most Common Wildlife/Rodents
· Rats
· Mice
