Watching wildlife in your own backyard can be a peaceful and even exciting experience. From curious raccoons to playful squirrels or the occasional deer, many Wisconsin homeowners enjoy seeing animals up close. It might feel harmless—or even helpful—to leave out food for them, especially during colder months. But while the intention may be kind, feeding wildlife can create more harm than good.
At Critter Control of West Central Wisconsin, we often see the consequences of well-meaning wildlife interactions. Feeding wild animals can quickly turn into a serious problem, both for the homeowner and the animals themselves. Here’s why it’s best to admire wildlife from a distance—and keep the snacks to yourself.
Feeding Wildlife Encourages Dependency
Wild animals are naturally equipped to find their own food sources. When people feed them regularly, it disrupts that behavior and can cause them to become dependent on handouts. This not only affects their survival instincts, but can also reduce their fear of humans—leading to increased interactions, aggression, and potential bites or scratches.
Once animals become accustomed to being fed in a specific area, they’re more likely to return again and again. This can result in repeated visits to your property, where they may seek shelter, build nests, or cause damage.
Backyard Feeding Can Lead to Overpopulation
Feeding wildlife, even unintentionally, can lead to overpopulation in localized areas. When food is readily available, more animals gather in one place than the environment would typically support. This can quickly turn a quiet backyard into a hotspot for animal activity, increasing the risk of property damage and disease transmission.
Too many animals in one area can also create conflict between species—or between animals and humans. These situations often escalate and require professional intervention to resolve.
Increased Risk of Property Damage
Animals drawn to easy meals don’t always stay outside. Raccoons may start exploring your attic or tearing through insulation. Squirrels can chew through soffits and wires. Even smaller animals like opossums or skunks can dig under decks, damage landscaping, or leave behind waste.
Once animals associate your home with food, they’re more likely to try to move in—especially during nesting season or colder months. Preventing this starts by removing any attractants and keeping wildlife at a safe distance.
Health Hazards for Humans and Pets
Wild animals can carry a variety of diseases and parasites, including rabies, roundworms, leptospirosis, and ticks. Feeding wildlife increases the chances of close contact, either directly or through contamination of shared outdoor spaces.
Pets are also at risk. A raccoon or opossum attracted to your yard can pose a threat to dogs or cats, either through direct confrontation or by leaving behind contaminated food or feces.
It’s Harmful to the Animals
Feeding wildlife can also harm the animals you’re trying to help. Human food is rarely suitable for their dietary needs, and frequent feedings can disrupt natural behaviors. Animals that lose their fear of people are at greater risk of being hit by vehicles, entering homes, or being removed or euthanized due to safety concerns.
In addition, many Wisconsin communities have local ordinances against feeding wildlife—especially species like deer, raccoons, or bears—because of the risks involved.
Better Ways to Enjoy Wildlife
If you enjoy observing wildlife, there are safer and more sustainable ways to do so. Consider:
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Planting native trees, shrubs, or flowers to create natural habitats
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Installing a bird bath or pollinator garden
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Keeping a respectful distance and using binoculars or cameras to observe
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Educating children on the importance of not feeding or approaching wild animals
Let Critter Control Help Keep Wildlife Wild
At Critter Control of West Central Wisconsin, we’re passionate about protecting both people and animals. If you’re dealing with unwanted backyard visitors—or if previous feeding habits have led to an infestation—we’re here to help. Our humane wildlife control services focus on safe removal, prevention, and long-term solutions that work for you and the environment.
Contact us today to schedule a property inspection or get expert advice on keeping your home wildlife-free—while still enjoying the beauty of nature, safely and responsibly.