Spring in Southern Wisconsin is a beautiful time—flowers bloom, temperatures rise, and everything seems to come back to life. But as nature wakes up, so do the critters that may see your home as the perfect place to nest, rest, or raise their young. From squirrels in the attic to raccoons under the deck, spring is prime time for wildlife activity.
At Critter Control of Southern Wisconsin, we specialize in humane, effective wildlife removal and prevention—and it all starts with knowing what signs to look for. Catching the problem early can help you avoid damage to your home, not to mention the stress (and smell) of an unexpected animal roommate.
Here are some of the most common—and easy to miss—signs of wildlife activity around your home this spring:
Noises in the Attic, Walls, or Crawlspaces
Hearing mysterious thumps, scurries, or scratching above your ceiling or inside the walls? That’s a classic indicator that an animal has moved in. Squirrels, raccoons, bats, and even birds look for quiet, sheltered areas to nest in during the spring months. If you’re hearing noises mostly at night, you might be dealing with nocturnal animals like raccoons or bats. If it’s during the day, squirrels or birds are likely suspects.
These sounds often begin subtly but can become more frequent and louder as animals build nests, care for young, or move in and out more often.
Unusual Droppings or Persistent Odors
Wild animals aren’t exactly known for their housekeeping skills. Droppings in the attic, garage, or basement—or even along your deck or near the foundation—can signal unwanted guests. Over time, animal waste builds up and can create a strong, musty odor. If you smell something “off” that doesn’t go away, it could be from urine, droppings, or even a deceased animal hidden in an inaccessible area.
Important tip: Never try to clean animal waste without proper protective gear. Many droppings can carry diseases like leptospirosis, salmonella, or hantavirus.
Signs of Digging or Nest Building
Check around your foundation, porch steps, deck, and shed. Are there signs of disturbed soil, burrows, or fresh digging? Skunks, groundhogs, and opossums may dig to create dens near your home. Inside, you might notice piles of insulation, shredded paper, leaves, or even cloth—materials often used by rodents and birds to create nests in your walls or attic.
Wildlife are expert nest-builders, and they can be surprisingly crafty in how and where they do it.
Chewed Wiring, Wood, or Entry Points
Rodents, including squirrels and mice, chew constantly to keep their teeth from overgrowing. That chewing can cause serious problems when it’s directed at your home—especially wiring. Chewed electrical wires are not only a sign of infestation but also a fire hazard.
You might also spot damage on soffits, vents, rooflines, or wooden beams. These are often the entry points animals use to get inside, and the damage may be subtle until it worsens.
Bird or Squirrel Nests in Vents and Chimneys
Your chimney and roof vents may look like real estate gold to birds or squirrels looking to settle down. Unfortunately, nests in these areas can cause major issues, from airflow blockages to fire risks. If you’re noticing twigs, leaves, or feathers near vent openings—or if your dryer is taking longer than usual to work—it’s worth having it checked.
Your Pets Are on High Alert
Pets can sense what we can’t. If your dog is growling at the wall or staring under the deck for long periods of time, they may be hearing or smelling something unusual. Don’t ignore this behavior—it’s often the first clue that something’s living nearby.
What to Do if You Notice Wildlife Activity
First and foremost: don't try to remove the animal yourself. Many animals, especially during the spring nesting season, are territorial and protective of their young. Getting too close can result in scratches, bites, or even disease exposure.
Instead, call in professionals like Critter Control of Southern Wisconisn. We specialize in:
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Humane trapping and removal
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Identifying and sealing animal entry points
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Clean-up and sanitation of affected areas
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Long-term prevention strategies to keep critters out for good
Our team understands the behaviors of local wildlife and the safest, most effective ways to handle them—with minimal stress for both you and the animal.
Schedule a Spring Wildlife Inspection Today
Spring is a time to enjoy nature—not share your attic with it. If you suspect wildlife has moved in, or just want peace of mind, contact Critter Control of Southern Wisconsin for a full inspection. We’ll assess your home, identify risk areas, and give you a clear plan to protect your space—humanely and effectively.