As the seasons change in Dayton, so do the behaviors and activity levels of local wildlife. Animals often seek shelter, food, and warmth near human homes, especially when the weather turns extreme. By staying ahead of the seasonal patterns, you can take proactive steps to reduce your chances of a wildlife intrusion. Here are our top tips for each season to help you protect your home year-round.
Spring: Seal Entry Points and Address Nesting Behavior
Spring in Dayton marks the start of breeding season for many species, which leads to a surge in wildlife activity around homes. Squirrels often seek attics or soffits to raise their young, while raccoons may break into chimneys or crawlspaces in search of denning spots. Birds are also actively nesting and can become a nuisance when they settle in vents or eaves.
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Inspect your roofline, attic vents, and soffits for signs of damage or gaps.
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Trim tree branches away from your roof to prevent easy access to upper levels.
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Install chimney caps and repair loose flashing.
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Watch for nesting activity, especially in garages, sheds, and attics.
Summer: Control Food Sources and Outdoor Access
With longer days and warmer weather, Dayton wildlife becomes more mobile and focused on foraging. Raccoons, skunks, and opossums are especially active during summer nights and are drawn to human food sources such as unsecured garbage, pet food, compost bins, or even fallen fruit. Insects also attract smaller predators like snakes and toads, which may end up in basements, sheds, or garages.
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Secure garbage bins with tight-fitting lids.
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Clean up fallen fruit from trees and birdseed from feeders.
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Eliminate standing water in yard features like kiddie pools, buckets, and planters.
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Keep pet food indoors, and feed pets inside when possible.
Fall: Prepare for Denning and Burrowing Behavior
As fall sets in and temperatures begin to drop, wildlife in the Dayton region start preparing for winter. Rodents like mice and rats are especially problematic this time of year, as they try to enter homes in search of warmth. Bats may also attempt to roost in attics or eaves before hibernation. Larger mammals, like raccoons, look for den sites to ride out the colder months.
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Perform a full home inspection to locate and seal cracks, crevices, or holes.
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Install mesh over vents and crawl space openings.
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Clear brush and firewood from near the foundation to discourage burrowing.
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`Check attic insulation for signs of tampering or nesting.
Winter: Monitor for Indoor Activity and Droppings
Winter in Dayton forces most wildlife into survival mode. With food and shelter in short supply, many animals—including rats, mice, and squirrels—move indoors, taking advantage of even the smallest openings. Homeowners may hear scratching in the walls or ceilings, spot droppings in pantries or basements, or notice insulation damage in the attic. Larger animals may remain in attics or chimneys if access was gained earlier in the year.
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Listen for unusual noises, especially at night.
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Check for droppings or grease marks along baseboards, in cabinets, or in attics.
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Set up deterrents or traps if you suspect rodents.
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Call a wildlife professional immediately if you suspect a larger intruder like a raccoon or opossum.
Year-Round Prevention Measures
While wildlife activity shifts with the seasons, consistent home maintenance can significantly reduce your risk of intrusions. Keeping your landscaping trimmed and clear of overgrowth helps limit access to entry points. Make a habit of inspecting your home regularly for damage, droppings, or signs of animal activity. Maintaining a clean environment—both indoors and outside—by securing trash, storing food properly, and removing clutter discourages animals from nesting or foraging near your property. For added protection, consider scheduling seasonal inspections with a wildlife control professional who can identify vulnerabilities and provide long-term solutions.
Stay Protected with Critter Control of Dayton
Wildlife doesn’t follow a calendar—but it does follow instincts. At Critter Control of Dayton, we offer year-round prevention services, humane removal solutions, and expert guidance tailored to Ohio’s seasonal wildlife challenges. If you suspect an intrusion or want help reinforcing your home, we’re just a call away.
Dont' wait for a problem. Get ahead of it. Contact Critter Control of Dayton today for seasonal protection that works.