Kansas City's changing seasons bring not only fluctuating temperatures and weather patterns but also a rotating cast of wildlife challenges for homeowners and businesses alike. As animals respond to the rhythms of nature, they often come into conflict with human environments—seeking food, shelter, and warmth. At Critter Control of Kansas City, we specialize in humane wildlife control, and we’ve seen firsthand how each season presents unique issues. Here's what to expect and how you can prepare.
Spring: Nesting Season and Increased Activity
As winter thaws, wildlife awakens. Spring marks the start of breeding and nesting for many species. This is when animals are most likely to invade attics, crawl spaces, and chimneys in search of safe, warm places to raise their young.
Common Spring Nuisances:
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Raccoons nesting in attics or chimneys
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Squirrels entering soffits or vents
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Birds building nests in vents and eaves
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Skunks digging under decks or sheds
How to Prepare:
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Inspect your home for holes or weak spots in the roof, siding, and foundation
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Cap chimneys and cover vents with wildlife-proof screening
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Remove outdoor food sources such as birdseed or pet food
Summer: High Activity and Feeding Frenzy
With longer days and abundant food, summer is a time of peak activity for wildlife. Young animals are growing and learning to forage, which means more chances for human-wildlife encounters.
Common Summer Intrusions:
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Bats roosting in attics or walls
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Snakes seeking cool, shaded areas
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Opossums scavenging in trash bins
How to Prepare:
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Keep garbage tightly sealed
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Trim back vegetation from your home’s foundation
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Repair screens and seal openings in siding or roofing
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Avoid leaving pet food outside overnight
Fall: Wildlife Preparing for Winter
As temperatures drop, wildlife begins preparing for the cold months ahead. Animals become more aggressive in their search for shelter, making fall one of the most critical times for preventative measures.
Fall Wildlife Concerns:
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Rodents such as mice and rats moving indoors
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Raccoons and squirrels stockpiling food in attics
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Bats looking for hibernation sites
How to Prepare:
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Perform a thorough home inspection for entry points
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Seal cracks, holes, and gaps around windows, doors, and the foundation
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Store firewood away from the house and elevate it off the ground
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Schedule a fall wildlife inspection with a professional
Winter: Staying Warm—and So Are They
Wildlife slows down in winter, but that doesn’t mean the threats disappear. In fact, animals that have made it into your home may settle in for the season, causing damage and posing health risks.
Winter Issues Include:
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Mice and rats nesting in insulation or behind walls
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Squirrels chewing on electrical wires in attics
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Raccoons denning in chimneys or crawl spaces
How to Prepare:
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Monitor your attic and crawl spaces for signs of activity
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Listen for unusual noises, especially at dawn or dusk
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Contact a wildlife expert at the first sign of intrusion
When to Call the Professionals
Wildlife issues can quickly escalate from a nuisance to a serious problem. DIY methods often fall short—and can sometimes make the situation worse. If you suspect an animal has made its way into your home, it’s best to leave it to trained professionals.
At Critter Control of Kansas City, we use humane, effective methods to safely remove animals and prevent future invasions. Our seasonal inspection and exclusion services help homeowners stay a step ahead—no matter the time of year.
Get Ahead of the Season with Critter Control
Don’t wait until critters have already made themselves at home. Contact Critter Control of Kansas City today to schedule a seasonal wildlife inspection or to learn more about our prevention services. We’re here to help you live wildlife-free, year-round.