When powerful storms roll through Southern Wisconsin, most homeowners worry about fallen trees, roof damage, or power outages. But one issue that’s often overlooked is the increased risk of wildlife intrusions. Storm damage doesn’t just affect people—it also disrupts natural habitats, forcing animals to seek new shelter. That often leads them straight into your attic, garage, or crawlspace.
At Critter Control of Southern Wisconsin, we regularly see a spike in wildlife activity following severe weather events. Understanding why storms drive animals into your home—and what you can do to prevent it—can save you time, money, and stress.
How Storms Disrupt Wildlife Behavior
Strong winds, heavy rain, and hail can destroy nests, flood burrows, and damage tree cover. When wildlife lose their homes, they instinctively search for new shelter—and fast. Human structures often provide the perfect combination of warmth, safety, and cover from predators.
Here are a few common wildlife scenarios that follow storms in Wisconsin:
Tree-Dwelling Animals Lose Shelter
Squirrels, raccoons, and birds often nest in trees. When storms bring down limbs or entire trees, these animals are suddenly displaced. Your attic or chimney can seem like an ideal backup den—especially if your home has suffered minor roof or siding damage.
Flooding Drives Burrowing Animals Above Ground
Heavy rains can flood the dens of groundhogs, skunks, and other burrowing animals. In search of dry ground, they may end up under decks, sheds, or even inside basements with compromised foundations or vent openings.
Damaged Homes Offer Easy Entry
Storm damage creates new entry points that wildlife can exploit. Missing shingles, broken soffits, torn vents, and gaps in siding all provide easy access. Animals that normally wouldn’t have been able to get in now find an open door.
Food Sources Are Disrupted
Severe weather can also disrupt the local food chain. Flooded gardens, damaged garbage bins, and scattered bird feeders can force animals to search new areas for meals—often leading them right to your backyard or porch.
Signs Wildlife Has Moved In After a Storm
After a storm, it’s a good idea to walk around your property and check for signs that animals may have taken up residence. Look for:
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Scratching or thumping sounds in walls or ceilings
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Animal droppings in the attic or basement
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Unusual odors or strong smells of urine
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Damaged insulation or nesting materials
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Holes or claw marks near vents, soffits, or foundation cracks
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to act quickly. Wildlife in your home can cause serious damage, spread disease, and even pose fire risks from chewed wires.
What You Can Do
Here are some steps you can take immediately after a storm to minimize the risk of unwanted wildlife guests:
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Inspect Your Home for Damage: Check your roof, attic vents, siding, and foundation for openings.
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Secure Food Sources: Bring pet food indoors, secure trash bins, and clean up fallen fruit or birdseed.
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Trim and Clear Debris: Remove fallen branches and other storm debris that animals might use as cover.
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Avoid DIY Trapping: Wild animals can be unpredictable, especially when stressed. It's best to let professionals handle removal safely and humanely.
How Critter Control of Southern Wisconsin Can Help
Our team specializes in post-storm wildlife inspections and humane removal services. We understand how storms affect animal behavior and how to safely address intrusions. If your home has been damaged by severe weather, we can:
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Identify and seal potential entry points
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Safely remove any animals that have moved in
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Repair damage caused by wildlife
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Help prevent future issues with exclusion solutions
Don’t wait until noises in the attic become a bigger problem. If a recent storm has passed through your area, contact Critter Control of Southern Wisconsin for a full property inspection.