Spring has arrived, which means wildlife change their behavior. Many critters come out of hibernation and become more active in the warmer weather. Others search for cozy and safe places to give birth and raise their young. One thing is for certain – when wild animals are on the move in the spring, there's a chance they could end up taking roost in your home.  

What Animals Can Get into My Home in the Spring? 

During the spring, fluctuation in weather is unavoidable. Rainy periods and the end of the migration season can draw critters into your home. Plus, many wildlife species search for safe places to raise their young – your attic or crawl space could be the perfect place!  

Some common wildlife to look out for in the spring include: 

Rats 

Yes, rats are active year-round…however, they breed in the spring and summer months. Not only are rats an unpleasant animal to have in your house, but they can also be dangerous to humans and pets because they carry various diseases. If you notice torn insulation or drywall, hear noises in your walls or see rodent droppings, it could be a sign of rats in your home.  

Bats 

Bats are returning from migration to the north during the spring. When bats return from migration their main goal is to start colonies, meaning they'll likely travel in higher volumes. Attics, especially those in suburban communities, can be the perfect nesting area for bats. Because bats can carry disease and cause extensive home damage, it's important to be vigilant if you notice signs they could be in your home – if you notice droppings, hear chirping sounds or notice bats flying around your house this spring, make sure to call a professional wildlife removal expert. 

Squirrels 

When spring rolls around, squirrels are fresh out of hibernation which means your open trash cans will be the perfect place for them to grab a meal. Squirrels tend to be a common spring pest because they enter houses, garages and other spaces while hunting for food. If you notice scampering noises in the morning or evening, see droppings or deposits of acorns in your attic, or smell foul urine odors, a squirrel may have chosen your home as its home for the spring. 

How to Avoid Spring Wildlife 

You want to enjoy the upcoming warmer months without having to worry about wildlife causing a disruption in your home. In order to avoid these critters making their way into your home this spring, it's important to take small steps that you might've overlooked during the colder months. 

• Always keep trash cans covered 
• Install stripping under doors if there are gaps 
• Check around your crawl spaces, attic, or basement for any possible entry points (small holes) 
• Call a professional to inspect your home and prepare it for wildlife prevention 

Include Wildlife Exclusion as Part of Your Spring-Cleaning Plan 

Make sure your home is protected from unwanted wildlife guests this spring. At Go Pro, we offer a free multi-point inspection to identify potential issues and determine if an animal is causing an unsafe or unhealthy environment. Contact us by phone at (334) 744-0391 to learn more about our services.