Here in West Central Wisconsin, the beauty of our four distinct seasons comes with a hidden downside—changing rodent behavior. As the temperatures shift throughout the year, mice, rats, squirrels, and other rodents adapt in ways that often lead them into our homes and businesses. Understanding how each season influences rodent activity can help you take proactive steps to protect your property.
Spring: Nesting Season Begins
As snow melts and temperatures rise, rodents become more active. Spring is breeding season for many species, including mice and squirrels, and they begin searching for safe, warm nesting spots. Homes provide ideal shelter, especially in attics, garages, and crawlspaces. Common signs of springtime rodent activity include the sound of scratching in walls, nesting materials like shredded paper or insulation, and an increase in daytime sightings. Early spring is a smart time to inspect your property for potential entry points and make sure everything is sealed before populations grow.
Summer: Population Growth and Outdoor Activity
In summer, rodents take advantage of the warmer weather and increased food availability. While many remain outdoors during these months, growing populations and competition for resources can push some to look for new shelter or food sources indoors. Easy access to pet food, unsecured garbage, or leaky pipes can attract them to your home. Keep vegetation trimmed away from your foundation, store food securely, and eliminate any standing water around your property to reduce the chances of a summer infestation.
Fall: The Rush to Find Warm Shelter
As temperatures begin to drop, rodents start looking for places to overwinter. This is one of the most critical times for infestations to begin. Mice can squeeze through gaps as small as a dime, and squirrels may use overhanging branches to access your attic. Rodents are resourceful and persistent, so fall is the ideal time to reinforce your home’s defenses. Listen for movement in the walls, check for droppings in the basement or garage, and inspect the exterior for cracks, holes, or unsealed vents.
Winter: Settling in for the Season
Once inside, rodents tend to stay put for the winter. With little food and shelter outdoors, they rely on what they find inside your home. Rodents often cause the most damage during winter, chewing through wires, insulation, and even drywall. Their droppings and urine can also pose serious health risks. Since infestations are less visible during the colder months, they can go undetected until significant damage is done. If you notice unusual noises, smells, or signs of gnawing, it’s time to call in the professionals.
Year-Round Protection Starts with Prevention
No matter the season, the key to avoiding rodent infestations is staying ahead of their behavior patterns. At Critter Control of West Central Wisconsin, we specialize in humane, effective wildlife management tailored to our local environment. Our services include thorough inspections, professional exclusion work, humane trapping and removal, and long-term prevention strategies to keep rodents out for good.
If you suspect rodent activity or simply want to make sure your home is protected through every season, contact us today. We’re proud to serve our neighbors across West Central Wisconsin with reliable, expert care that keeps homes safe, clean, and critter-free.