Understanding Seasonal Wildlife Behavior

Winter Shelter Seekers: Rodents and Other Invaders

As temperatures drop in the fall and winter months, wildlife begins to seek warmth and shelter. This is when mice, rats, and squirrels are most likely to enter homes, garages, and attics through small gaps or vulnerable points in the structure.

Winter pest activity is driven by:

Food scarcity in natural habitats
Desire for warmth and nesting space
Access to indoor resources, like insulation or stored grains

According to recent data, rodent-related pest control calls spike between November and February in Tennessee, especially in urban and suburban areas like Nashville and Knoxville. These infestations aren’t just a nuisance; they can cause property damage, contaminate food, and even create fire hazards by chewing through wires.

Professionals recommend sealing potential entry points before cold weather sets in. This may include:

Installing door sweeps
Patching holes in siding
Sealing gaps around utility pipes
Trimming branches that give roof access

Spring and Summer: Nesting, Breeding, and More Activity

Warmer weather means more movement from both pests and larger wildlife. Birds, raccoons, and squirrels become more active in spring as breeding season begins. Unfortunately, some choose to nest in attics, crawl spaces, or wall voids.

Common spring/summer wildlife-related pests include:

Squirrels: Often enter through roof vents and soffits
Birds: Build nests in chimneys or dryer vents
Raccoons: Take shelter in attics or under porches

This season also marks a boom in insects and rodents as food sources become more abundant. These behaviors directly increase human-wildlife interaction, raising the risk of disease transmission and property damage.

For example, raccoons can carry parasites and diseases like roundworm and leptospirosis. Birds nesting in ventilation systems can lead to air quality issues. These problems underscore the need for early intervention during spring inspections.

Wildlife and Pest Activity in Rural vs. Urban Areas

While urban homeowners deal with rodents and nesting birds, those in rural Tennessee may face different wildlife pressures, such as:

Opossums or skunks denning under sheds
Snakes drawn to rodent populations or damp crawl spaces
Bats roosting in barns or attic rafters

Urban sprawl has pushed some species closer to populated neighborhoods, especially where greenbelts and food waste offer easy access. The overlap between urban development and wildlife migration paths makes prevention even more important in transitional areas.

When Wildlife Becomes a Pest Control Problem

Not all wildlife encounters qualify as pest issues—but when they threaten health, safety, or property, it’s time to act. Wildlife intrusion can trigger or worsen pest infestations by:

Damaging insulation and creating entry points for insects
Spreading fleas, ticks, and mites into homes
Attracting predators or scavengers

In these cases, pest control isn’t just about eliminating an insect problem—it may also involve exclusion work, wildlife removal, and cleanup services.

Companies like DOA Pest Service understand this overlap. Their technicians in regularly assist with rodent control that stems from seasonal wildlife nesting habits. Whether it’s identifying signs of raccoon activity or sealing up squirrel access points, the goal is to implement long-term solutions that consider both wildlife patterns and pest prevention.

Climate Change and Shifting Wildlife Behavior

Tennessee’s climate is shifting, with warmer winters and longer rainy seasons influencing how wildlife behaves. Animals that once hibernated through the cold months may now remain partially active year-round, extending the window for pest-related issues.

Predicted changes include:

Rodents reproducing more frequently
Earlier nesting for birds
Increased mosquito and tick populations

Staying ahead of these changes means taking a seasonal approach to pest management. This includes regularly updating prevention strategies and staying informed about local wildlife behavior through agencies like the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.

Prevention Tips for Wildlife-Linked Pest Issues

Homeowners can take a proactive role in limiting seasonal pest risks by adopting the following strategies:

Spring/Summer:

Install chimney caps and vent covers
Schedule attic inspections for nests or droppings
Clear out overgrown vegetation and yard clutter

Fall/Winter:

Seal cracks and crevices around the home
Store food (including pet food) in sealed containers
Check crawl spaces and garages for signs of nesting

Also, avoid leaving pet food outside, secure trash bins, and use motion-activated lights to deter nocturnal animals.

If wildlife intrusion or pest signs persist despite prevention efforts, it may be time to contact professionals. Companies like DOA Pest Service offer seasonal assessments tailored to Nashville’s wildlife behavior, ensuring your home stays pest-free year-round.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which animals are most likely to become pests during Tennessee winters?
Rodents like mice and rats are most common, often entering homes in search of warmth and food.

Are wildlife encounters more common in rural areas?
Yes, though suburban and urban areas also see increased wildlife activity, especially near parks or wooded lots.

Can raccoons and squirrels damage homes?
Absolutely. They can chew through wood, wiring, and insulation, leading to costly repairs.

What should I do if I hear noises in my attic?
Call a pest control professional to inspect for nests or signs of entry. Avoid attempting removal yourself.

How often should I inspect my home for wildlife intrusion?
Ideally once per season, especially in early spring and late fall, to catch problems before they escalate.