Kansas City’s natural landscapes and suburban environments provide the perfect backdrop for a variety of wildlife. While many animals contribute positively to the local ecosystem, some can pose problems when they venture too close to homes. Understanding the behaviors and tendencies of these common critters can help you better protect your property—and know when it's time to call in the experts.
Raccoons
Raccoons are among the most adaptable and curious creatures found in the Kansas City area. Their distinctive black facial markings and nimble paws make them easy to recognize, especially when they’re rifling through garbage cans or sneaking onto porches in search of food. These nocturnal animals are most active at night and often establish dens in attics, chimneys, or beneath decks. Homeowners might first notice the sounds of movement overhead after dark, or find their trash bins mysteriously tipped over and raided. Their cleverness and persistence make raccoons particularly challenging to deter without professional help.
Squirrels
Squirrels are a common sight in local neighborhoods, darting across power lines or digging in lawns. Though their daytime activity and energetic movements seem harmless, squirrels can cause considerable damage if they choose to nest in your home. They often chew through siding, vents, or roofing to reach attic spaces where they build nests from leaves and insulation. The sounds of scratching or scurrying during the day are often the first indication of a squirrel problem. Their constant need to gnaw—due to ever-growing teeth—can also result in damaged wiring, which poses fire risks.
Opossums
Opossums are quiet, solitary animals that tend to stay out of sight. However, they’re more common in urban and suburban areas than many people realize. With their pointed snouts, hairless tails, and slow, deliberate movements, opossums often go unnoticed unless they are startled or caught rummaging through pet food or trash at night. They may seek shelter under porches, in crawlspaces, or even in open garages. While generally non-aggressive, their presence can still be alarming—especially if they’ve taken up residence near your home.
Skunks
Few animals make their presence known as quickly or unmistakably as skunks. These black-and-white mammals are most active at night and are notorious for the strong odor they release when threatened. Skunks often dig up lawns while foraging for grubs and insects and may settle under decks, sheds, or crawlspaces to raise their young. Homeowners might notice small cone-shaped holes in the yard or catch a whiff of their distinctive scent, even without seeing the animal itself. Despite their reputation, skunks are usually docile and avoid confrontation when possible.
Bats
Bats play a vital ecological role in Kansas City, especially in controlling insect populations. However, when they find their way into attics or behind siding, they can create serious concerns. Bats roost in tight, dark spaces during the day and emerge around dusk to feed. Their presence is often revealed by faint squeaking or rustling sounds, or by the appearance of dark stains and droppings near entry points. While they rarely pose direct threats to humans, bat guano can carry health risks, and their removal should always be handled by trained professionals.
Groundhogs
Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are skilled burrowers that can cause significant damage to gardens, lawns, and even home foundations. These stocky rodents prefer open fields and wooded edges but are increasingly found in residential areas, especially where food sources like gardens are available. Their large burrow entrances and mounds of displaced dirt are telltale signs of their presence. Groundhogs are active during the day and can be particularly destructive in spring and summer as they forage and expand their tunnels.
Protecting Your Property from Wildlife Intrusion
Wildlife activity is a natural part of life in Kansas City, but when animals start damaging your home or posing health risks, it’s time to take action. By recognizing the behaviors and patterns of common local species, you can spot potential problems early and avoid costly repairs down the line. For safe, humane, and effective wildlife removal, turn to the experts at Critter Control of Kansas City.