As summer settles over Wisconsin, the natural world comes alive with motion. Warmer temperatures and longer days spark increased activity among many species that call our state home. From dawn to dusk—and often well into the night—you might notice more wildlife out and about. While some of these encounters are harmless and even enjoyable, others can cause headaches for homeowners.
Here’s a look at the most active animals during Wisconsin’s summer months and what that could mean for your home or property.
Raccoons: Nighttime Bandits
Raccoons are notorious for their intelligence, dexterity, and mischief. In summer, they become particularly active as food sources are abundant and young raccoons begin venturing out with their mothers. Garbage cans, pet food, compost piles, and even attics or crawl spaces become tempting targets. Homeowners may hear rustling noises at night or see tipped-over trash bins in the morning—clear signs of raccoon activity.
Squirrels: Hyperactive Foragers
Wisconsin's squirrels—especially gray and red varieties—are busy during summer months. They build nests, raise their young, and gather food in preparation for the colder seasons ahead. These agile climbers can easily find their way onto rooftops and into attics, where they chew on wood, insulation, and even wiring. Their activity peaks early in the morning and late in the afternoon.
Bats: Silent Flyers of the Night
Summer is prime time for bats in Wisconsin. These nocturnal mammals are vital for controlling mosquito populations, but they can become problematic when they roost in attics, barns, or chimneys. June and July are particularly sensitive times, as many bats are caring for flightless pups. If you suspect bats in your home, it’s important to wait until the pups are flying before exclusion efforts can be safely and legally conducted.
Skunks: Unwelcome Backyard Visitors
Skunks tend to be more active during summer nights as they dig for insects and grubs. Lawns with torn-up patches may indicate skunk foraging. They also look for shelter in decks, sheds, and crawl spaces. While generally shy, a startled skunk can spray, making any encounter an unpleasant one.
Groundhogs: Burrowing Menaces
Also known as woodchucks, groundhogs are active during the day and known for their extensive burrow systems. In summer, they feed heavily on garden plants, grasses, and flowers. Their burrows can damage foundations, sidewalks, and other structures, creating hazards for both people and pets.
Opossums: The Nightshift Scavengers
Though they’re often misunderstood, opossums are a common sight in summer. They’re nocturnal scavengers that help clean up waste, carrion, and overripe fruits. They’re less likely to cause damage than raccoons or squirrels but can still make their way into garages or under porches looking for shelter.
What You Can Do
As wildlife becomes more active in summer, take steps to protect your property:
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Secure trash cans with tight-fitting lids
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Trim back trees and branches that touch your roof
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Seal gaps in siding, soffits, and vents
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Bring pet food inside at night
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Install mesh barriers around decks and sheds
If you suspect an animal has moved into your home, avoid DIY removal methods. Many wild animals in Wisconsin are protected and require humane handling techniques to ensure safe removal for both humans and wildlife.
Professional Help When You Need It
At Critter Control of Southern Wisconsin, we specialize in humane wildlife removal and exclusion. Whether you’re dealing with raccoons in the attic, bats in the chimney, or groundhogs under your porch, our team is ready to restore peace to your property. Contact us to schedule an inspection and keep summer wildlife where it belongs—out in the wild.