How Animal Behavior Changes Throughout The Year

Living in the Midwest means experiencing distinct shifts in weather that dictate not only our human behaviors but also the daily lives of the local wildlife. We adjust our thermostats and wardrobes based on the temperature, and the creatures sharing our environment do something very similar. One of the major differences between the two, however, is that their adjustments often involve seeking refuge within the climate-controlled structures we call our homes. Understanding how different times of year influence animal behavior is essential for maintaining a secure property. This cycle of activity is driven by biological needs such as mating, raising young, seeking relief from extreme temperatures, and finding shelter against harsh elements. By recognizing these patterns, property owners can anticipate when the chances of animal intrusion will be highest and take steps accordingly to fortify their buildings before a problem takes root.

Spring Awakening And The Drive To Nest

As the frozen ground thaws and temperatures begin their slow climb upward, the natural world kicks into high gear. This season is synonymous with new life, which means the primary motivation for many species is reproduction. The drive to find a secure, warm, and secluded area to give birth and raise vulnerable offspring is incredibly powerful. Unfortunately, the attics, chimneys, and crawlspaces of residential houses often mimic the ideal conditions of a hollow tree or a rocky den, but with significantly better protection from predators and the elements.

During these months, female wildlife becomes particularly persistent. A raccoon, for example, might tear through weakened soffits or roof vents to establish a nursery in an attic. Squirrels are known to chew through timber fascia boards to access the void between floors. The damage caused during this entry process is often significant, but the presence of babies complicates removal efforts. The maternal instinct implies that a mother will go to great lengths to return to her young if she is separated from them, often causing further destruction in her panic.

This period is also when homeowners typically notice the first signs of activity after a quiet winter. You might hear scratching in the ceiling at night or notice nesting materials accumulating near rooflines. Intrusion pressure is high because the biological clock is ticking. Preventing these invasions requires a keen eye for potential entry points that may have opened up during the previous months. Winter ice dams might have pulled gutters away from the fascia, or storm damage might have cracked siding. These small openings are invitations. Sealing them early in the season, before a family moves in, is the most effective strategy. It is critical to ensure no animals are already inside before sealing any holes, as trapping an animal inside creates a desperate and destructive situation.

Summer Activity And The Search For Respite

Once the frantic energy of spring mating season subsides, the focus shifts. Summer brings heat, and with it, a different set of challenges regarding wildlife control. As young animals grow and become mobile, the noise and activity levels within a structure can increase dramatically. A litter of raccoons that was quiet in April will be wrestling and vocalizing by June. This is often when homeowners who missed the initial entry suddenly realize they have unwanted guests.

Furthermore, high temperatures can drive animals to seek cooler areas. Just as we seek air conditioning, creatures look for the coolest parts of a building to escape the midday sun. This often leads them into crawlspaces, under decks, or deep into ventilation systems. Bats, in particular, are frequently encountered during the summer months. They may roost in attic vents or behind shutters, seeking a stable temperature gradient. While they are beneficial for insect control, having a colony take up residence inside a wall void presents issues with guano accumulation and noise.

This season also sees a spike in foraging activity. Gardens, pet food left outside, and unsecured trash cans become major attractants. When food is readily available near the foundation of a house, it draws animals closer to the structure. Once they are comfortable feeding near the perimeter, they are more likely to explore the building itself for potential denning sites. Groundhogs and skunks are notorious for burrowing under sheds, porches, and concrete slabs during this time. Their extensive digging can undermine foundations and create tripping hazards. Prevention during the summer involves managing these attractants rigorously. Keeping vegetation trimmed back from the house prevents it from acting as a bridge to the roof, while securing food sources reduces the reason for animals to congregate nearby.

The Autumn Rush For Winter Shelter

As the days shorten and the air turns crisp, a fundamental shift occurs in the behavior of almost every species in the region. The biological imperative turns strictly to survival. Animals know that winter is approaching, and they spend the autumn months consuming as much food as possible to build fat reserves and scouting for a winter den. This is widely considered the busiest time of year for rodent issues. Mice and rats are particularly sensitive to cooling temperatures and will exploit incredibly small gaps to gain access to a heated interior.

The intrusion pressure during the fall is intense because the consequence of failing to find shelter is often fatal for these creatures. They probe foundations, check weather stripping around doors, and inspect where utility pipes enter the siding. A gap the size of a dime is sufficient for a mouse to squeeze through. Once inside, they leave pheromone trails that signal to others that a warm, food-rich environment has been found. This can lead to a rapid increase in numbers if the entry points are not identified and closed off immediately.

Larger animals are also on the move. Raccoons and squirrels that may have lived outdoors during the benign summer weather will look to move back indoors. They seek the insulation of an attic to wait out the freezing months. This creates a compounding effect where multiple species may be trying to access the same structure simultaneously. The preventative focus in autumn must be on the building envelope. Steel wool, heavy-gauge hardware cloth, and specialized sealants are vital tools for blocking these pathways. Because rodents can chew through wood and spray foam, using durable materials is necessary to maintain the integrity of the barrier. This is the time to inspect the roof for loose shingles and check the chimney cap to ensure it is secure. Doing this work before the snow flies prevents the difficult task of trying to manage an infestation during the dead of winter.

Understanding the specific vulnerabilities of a structure in relation to the current season allows for smarter maintenance decisions. A proactive approach that prioritizes exclusion and sturdy repairs is far superior to waiting until an animal has already caused damage. If you suspect that nature has already made its way indoors, or if you wish to fortify your home against the changing seasons, professional assistance is the most reliable option. For comprehensive inspections and humane solutions tailored to the specific patterns of Iowa’s wildlife, contact us today at Southern Iowa Critter Catcher to protect your property.