As winter begins to loosen its grip and temperatures start fluctuating, many homeowners notice an increase in wildlife activity around their homes. Scratching in attics, movement in walls, digging under decks, or animals appearing during the day often seem to come out of nowhere. In reality, this increase follows a very predictable seasonal pattern. Late winter through early spring aligns with the breeding season for several common wildlife species, including raccoons, squirrels, and skunks, and this timing plays a major role in why problems suddenly become more noticeable.
Raccoons typically begin breeding in mid to late winter, with peak activity occurring from January through March. As females prepare to give birth, they actively seek out warm, quiet, and secure den sites. Attics, chimneys, and rooflines provide ideal shelter during cold weather, which is why homeowners often experience heavy nighttime movement or loud thumping sounds overhead. Babies are usually born in early to mid spring, and once young are present, the mother becomes extremely protective of the space. This is often when damage escalates, as raccoons will repeatedly force their way back into an attic if access is restricted improperly.
Squirrels follow a similar pattern, though they typically have two breeding seasons per year. The first occurs during the winter months, usually between January and February, with babies arriving in early spring. This winter breeding cycle causes the most issues inside homes because squirrels rely heavily on structures to survive cold temperatures. Attics filled with insulation offer warmth and protection, making them prime nesting locations. Homeowners may hear lighter, faster scratching sounds, often during the early morning or daytime hours. Once a nest is established, squirrels can become extremely persistent, chewing repeatedly in the same areas or creating new entry points if previous ones are blocked without addressing the full situation.
Skunks generally breed slightly later, most commonly between February and March. During this time, skunks become much more active, traveling greater distances and showing up in areas where they may not normally be seen. This is why skunks are often spotted during daylight hours in late winter and early spring. As females prepare to den, they search for sheltered locations such as under decks, sheds, porches, and along foundation edges. Fresh digging, soil disturbance, or strong musky odours around structures are common signs that a skunk is establishing a den site. Once babies arrive in spring, removal options become far more limited and must be handled carefully.
What makes breeding season particularly important is that wildlife behaviour changes significantly during this period. Animals are more determined, more territorial, and far less likely to leave a structure on their own. Attempts to seal entry points too quickly or force animals out without understanding whether young are present can lead to increased damage, lingering odours, or animals desperately trying to regain access. In many cases, what starts as a minor noise issue can quickly turn into a much larger structural and sanitation problem.
If you’re noticing new or unusual wildlife activity, the most important thing to do is slow down and observe before taking action. Pay attention to when the sounds occur, how often they happen, and where they seem to be coming from. Timing and location can provide valuable clues about whether an animal is simply passing through or actively denning.
Avoid sealing holes, blocking access points, or attempting removal without confirming what species is involved and whether young may be present. During breeding season, closing an entry too quickly can trap babies inside or cause a mother to tear through new areas of the home trying to regain access. This often results in more damage and a problem that becomes harder to resolve.
If activity appears to be increasing, or if you notice repeated movement in the same area, visible damage along rooflines or soffits, or fresh digging around decks or foundations, it’s best to have the situation properly assessed sooner rather than later. Early evaluation allows for humane, effective solutions that work with seasonal wildlife behaviour instead of against it.
Most importantly, wildlife activity during late winter and early spring is common and does not reflect poorly on the condition of a home. These animals are responding to natural instincts and environmental pressures. Addressing concerns early, with the right information and approach, helps prevent small issues from turning into larger, more disruptive problems as spring progresses.
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