Summer in West Central Wisconsin is a time for warm weather, longer days, and enjoying the outdoors—but it’s also a season of high activity for wildlife. As nature flourishes, so do some of our most common nuisance animals, including raccoons, squirrels, and bats. These animals are more active during the summer months as they search for food, raise their young, and explore new territory. Unfortunately, that often means they're on the move—right into your attic, garage, or walls.
Understanding their summer habits can help you identify potential risks early and take steps to keep your home and property safe.
Raccoons: Resourceful and Persistent
Raccoons are particularly active in the summer, especially females caring for their young. They are nocturnal and opportunistic, known for their intelligence and dexterity. Garbage cans, compost bins, pet food, and even bird feeders can be easy targets for hungry raccoons. Once they find a reliable food source, they’re likely to keep coming back—and if they find access to your attic or crawlspace, they may decide to move in permanently.
Signs of raccoon activity include knocked-over trash cans, torn ductwork or insulation, droppings, and heavy noises in the attic at night. Raccoons can cause significant structural damage and pose health risks through parasites and disease. If you suspect raccoons are nesting on your property or in your home, it's important to address the issue quickly and professionally.
Squirrels: Active, Agile, and Always Chewing
Summer is also peak activity season for squirrels. While they may seem harmless as they dart across your yard or up a tree, squirrels can be a major problem if they get into your home. During summer, squirrels are raising litters and often seek warm, safe places like attics to nest. They are excellent climbers and can gain entry through roof vents, damaged soffits, or small gaps in siding.
Once inside, squirrels can create fire hazards by chewing on electrical wires and damage insulation, ductwork, and stored belongings. You may hear scurrying or scratching noises during the day, especially in the early morning or evening, when squirrels are most active. Keeping trees trimmed and securing entry points can go a long way in preventing a squirrel infestation.
Bats: Quiet Guests with Serious Risks
Bats are another common summer visitor in Wisconsin. They typically roost in dark, quiet spaces like attics, barns, and chimneys. While they play a beneficial role in controlling insect populations, bats inside your home are a serious concern. Bat colonies can grow quickly, and their droppings (guano) can lead to strong odors and even health issues, including the risk of histoplasmosis—a lung infection caused by fungal spores in guano.
Bats are most active during warm months and are often seen around dusk, flying near lights or water sources. They typically enter homes through small openings near rooflines, vents, or loose shingles. Because bats are protected under Wisconsin law, removal must be handled humanely and carefully—usually with exclusion devices that allow bats to leave but prevent them from returning.
Keep Summer Wildlife Out Where It Belongs
While raccoons, squirrels, and bats are a natural part of Wisconsin’s ecosystem, they can quickly become a serious nuisance when they take up residence in your home. At Critter Control of West Central Wisconsin, we specialize in safe, humane wildlife removal and exclusion. Our experienced team will assess your property, remove any unwanted visitors, and seal entry points to prevent future intrusions.
Whether you’re hearing strange noises in the attic, spotting signs of nesting, or just want peace of mind during the busy summer season, we’re here to help.
Contact Critter Control of West Central Wisconsin today to schedule an inspection or learn more about our wildlife control services. Let us help you enjoy a pest-free summer—safely and responsibly.