Spring Wildlife Problems in Massachusetts
As the snow starts to melt and the days get longer, many animals start to make their presence known. This spring thaw can also reveal animal damage previously covered by the snow. Many animals give birth during spring, so as their populations grow, so can the problems they cause.
What to watch out for:
Skunks:
After a solid spring thaw, skunks become much more active as they search for food to fuel their spring bodies. They are known for getting into trash bins, but they are capable of burrowing their way into your home or property. This may not only cause structural damage, but if you or your pets come into contact with them, they may spray their notorious odor. Skunks are also a major carrier of rabies, which poses a direct threat to you, your family, or your business.
Squirrels:
Seeing all the songbirds at your feeder in the spring is a lovely sight! But when those pesky squirrels climb up the feeder and steal the seeds, it becomes a major problem. With ample access to food in your yard, these critters have no reason to leave. In fact, they might even try to make your home theirs by taking up shelter in your attic or crawlspaces.
Raccoons:
Raccoons love your scraps! Anything in your trash bins may look delicious. However, besides just looking for food, raccoons may try to take up residence in your home or property. They can scavenge their way through insulation and even siding. They may also leave droppings and bring disease into your space. Outside, raccoons tend to destroy plants.
Moles:
Moles are a lawn’s worst nightmare! Leaving their signature “mole-hole” in many places around your yard as they look for food, moles cause massive eyesores and problems for mowing and landscape maintenance.
Bats:
Bats are one of the most-reported rabid animals year after year. They are also the hosts of many other diseases. Besides being a major health risk, bats can cause major structural damage if they decided to make your attic or crawlspace their home.