Mid-Winter Thaws and Early Signs of Wildlife

Mid-Winter Thaws and the Early Signs of Wildlife Activity

Although winter is still firmly in place in early January, many homeowners begin noticing changes around their homes as temperatures fluctuate. Extended cold periods are often broken up by brief thaws, freezing rain, or milder daytime highs, and these shifts can cause wildlife such as raccoons and squirrels to become more active. While it may seem early, this is often the first stage of increased movement leading into the upcoming mating and baby seasons.

When temperatures rise even slightly above freezing, animals take advantage of the improved conditions. Snow compacts, icy surfaces soften, and rooflines become easier to access. Wildlife that has been sheltering quietly may suddenly begin travelling more frequently, revisiting structures they identified earlier in the winter as potential den sites. Homes offer warmth, protection from predators, and consistent shelter during unpredictable weather, making them especially appealing during this period.

One of the most common early warning signs homeowners report is unusual noise coming from the attic, particularly at night. These sounds are often described as loud thumping, scrambling, or what many people believe sounds like cats fighting inside the house. In reality, these noises are very often raccoons. During mid to late winter, raccoons can become extremely vocal and aggressive as mating season approaches. Their growling, screaming, and rapid movement can easily be mistaken for a violent cat fight, especially when it echoes through attic spaces.

Squirrels, while generally quieter, create their own set of recognizable sounds. Homeowners may hear steady scratching, rapid scurrying, or gnawing noises along rooflines or inside walls. These sounds often become more noticeable after a warmer day, when animals are more active and exploring access points before retreating during colder overnight temperatures.

Beyond noise, physical signs often begin to appear around the exterior of the home. Tracks in the snow leading to rooflines, disturbed insulation near vents, damaged soffit panels, or new chew marks around roof intersections are common indicators that wildlife is actively investigating the structure. Because winter conditions are still harsh, animals tend to be persistent once they find a location that offers warmth and security.

What makes this time of year particularly confusing is how sudden these signs can seem. A home may be quiet for weeks, followed by intense activity after just one or two mild days. This behaviour isn’t random. Wildlife is responding both to environmental changes and internal biological cues that push them to secure shelter well before young are born later in the season.

What to Do If You’re Hearing or Seeing These Signs

If you begin hearing loud or aggressive noises in the attic, especially sounds that resemble animals fighting, it’s important not to ignore them or assume they will resolve on their own. Wildlife activity rarely decreases once animals have identified a structure as a suitable shelter.

Avoid attempting to block entry points or trap animals yourself. Sealing openings while wildlife is still inside can force animals deeper into the structure, cause panic behaviour, or separate mothers from their young later in the season. This often leads to more damage and longer resolution timelines.

Take note of patterns instead. Pay attention to when the noise occurs, how long it lasts, and whether it coincides with warmer days or overnight temperature drops. Exterior signs such as roof tracks, disturbed snow, or new damage around vents and soffits are also valuable indicators that activity is increasing.

Mid-winter is often the best time to address these issues proactively. Identifying vulnerable areas early and dealing with wildlife before babies are present helps prevent extended attic occupations, unnecessary damage, and more complex situations later in the season.

Even though winter is far from over, early January is a reminder that wildlife never truly becomes inactive. Recognizing the sounds, movement, and physical signs associated with mid-winter activity allows homeowners to respond early and avoid larger problems as the season progresses.