As winter fades and the days grow longer, Wisconsin’s wildlife is waking up and getting back to business. Animals that hunkered down for the cold months are now on the move, searching for food, finding mates, and, in some cases, looking for a cozy place to raise their young. While it’s exciting to see nature come alive again, this also means homeowners need to be on the lookout for critters that might try to move in where they’re not welcome. Let’s take a look at what local wildlife is up to in spring—and how you can keep them from turning your home into theirs.
Wisconsin Wildlife in Spring
Raccoons & Skunks
Raccoons and skunks become more active in spring as they forage for food and seek den sites for raising young. These nocturnal creatures often look for shelter in attics, crawl spaces, and under decks.
Squirrels & Chipmunks
With an increase in food sources, squirrels and chipmunks become more active, gathering seeds, nuts, and other vegetation. They may seek out warm nesting spots in sheds, garages, or even within walls.
Bats
As temperatures rise, bats begin emerging from hibernation in search of insects. They may return to summer roosts in attics or barns, posing potential concerns for homeowners.
Birds
Many bird species, including robins and swallows, migrate back to Wisconsin in spring. They build nests in trees, under eaves, and in chimneys—sometimes creating blockages in ventilation systems.
Deer
White-tailed deer shed their winter coats and start seeking fresh vegetation. They can become a nuisance in gardens and yards, feasting on new plant growth.
Coyotes & Foxes
These predators become more visible in spring as they hunt to support their young. They may roam closer to neighborhoods in search of small mammals and food scraps.
How Homeowners Can Prepare for Spring Wildlife Activity
With wildlife on the move, homeowners should take preventative measures to avoid unwanted guests on their property. Here are a few tips:
Seal Entry Points – Inspect your home for holes, gaps, or weak spots in your attic, basement, siding, and foundation. Wildlife often sneaks in through small openings.
Secure Trash Bins – Use tightly sealed garbage cans to prevent raccoons, skunks, and coyotes from rummaging through food scraps.
Trim Trees & Bushes – Keep tree branches trimmed at least six feet away from your home to prevent squirrels and raccoons from gaining easy access to the roof.
Clean Up Yard Debris – Piles of leaves, brush, or firewood provide shelter for small animals and pests. Keep your yard tidy to deter nesting.
Protect Gardens – Install fencing or use natural repellents to keep deer and rabbits from munching on newly sprouted plants.
Inspect Chimneys & Vents – Birds, squirrels, and bats may try to nest in chimneys or ventilation systems. Installing chimney caps and vent covers can help keep them out.
Be Mindful of Pet Food – Leaving pet food outside can attract unwanted wildlife. Feed pets indoors when possible.
If you suspect wildlife has taken up residence in your home, it’s best to contact a professional wildlife removal service. DIY removal can be dangerous and, in some cases, illegal due to local wildlife protection laws. Critter Control of Southern Wisconsin specializes in humane removal, exclusion, and prevention services to keep your home safe and wildlife where it belongs—out in nature.