Spring brings with it warmer weather, longer days, and a renewed desire to spend time outdoors. As homeowners begin to clean up their yards, uncover patio furniture, and prep gardens for the season ahead, it’s important to remember that you’re not the only one becoming more active. Urban wildlife—raccoons, squirrels, skunks, and other critters—have been busy seeking shelter throughout the winter, and many have taken up residence much closer to home than you might expect.

At Gates Wildlife Control, we’ve seen time and again how spring activity from animals can go unnoticed until it becomes a serious issue. Here’s what to keep in mind as you begin your seasonal cleanup:

Subtle Signs of Unwanted Wildlife Guests

Animals don’t always make their presence known with noise or dramatic damage. In fact, some of the most common signs of wildlife entry are surprisingly subtle. As you walk around your property, keep an eye out for things like small pieces of insulation scattered on the lawn or roofing shingles that look lifted or broken. These can be indicators that animals have accessed your attic or roof void. In many cases, the plastic lid of a roof vent may be missing or lying in the yard—a common tactic used by raccoons to gain entry.

While you may not hear movement above your ceiling, that doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. Many homeowners are shocked to find that animals have taken up residence in their attics without making a sound. That’s why visual inspections are so important this time of year.

Outdoor Covers and Tarps Make Cozy Nurseries

Spring cleanup often means removing covers from patio furniture, grills, and other backyard structures. These seemingly minor tasks can lead to a surprising encounter. Mother raccoons in particular are known to take advantage of covered areas as quiet, protected places to give birth and raise their young. We’ve seen many cases where raccoons have set up dens under furniture tarps, pool covers, or even folded patio umbrellas.

Before pulling anything back, proceed cautiously. Slowly lift or shake the cover and listen for any rustling sounds or movement. If you discover a mother raccoon and her babies, do not attempt to remove them yourself—this is best left to professionals trained in humane removal.

Sheds and Garages Can Be Ideal Dens

Your shed may be home to more than just tools and lawn furniture. These small, often undisturbed structures provide excellent shelter for wildlife during the colder months. As temperatures rise, animals may become more active inside these spaces or prepare to give birth. It’s not uncommon for squirrels, raccoons, or skunks to set up shop inside a cluttered shed, tucked behind storage bins or underneath stacked chairs.

When cleaning out these areas, move items slowly and carefully. Pay attention to sounds like high-pitched chirps or scratching. These may be signs that baby animals are present. Startling or displacing them without knowing where the mother is can cause distress and put the animals at risk. If you’re unsure, call a professional.

Avoid Confrontation—Especially With Protective Mothers

No matter how calm an animal may appear, things can change quickly if a mother feels her young are threatened. Attempting to remove or handle a mother raccoon, squirrel, or skunk is dangerous—not only to you, but to the animals. Mothers are protective and may bite or scratch if approached. Additionally, if not handled correctly, the mother could abandon her babies, leaving them vulnerable.

At Gates Wildlife, we specialize in safe, humane removal techniques that protect both the animals and your property. We ensure babies are located, safely removed, and reunited with their mothers outside the home where they can continue to thrive.

Call the Experts Before the Problem Grows

f you spot any signs of wildlife around your home—or if you simply want peace of mind this spring, give us a call. We’re here to help with over 40 years of experience in humane wildlife control. Our team is trained to identify problem areas, assess animal presence, and resolve the situation in a way that’s respectful to the animals and effective for the homeowner.

You can reach Gates Wildlife Control at 1.877.750.9453. We’re just a phone call away, ready to help you enjoy your spring without any unexpected wildlife surprises.

Contact Gates Wildlife Today

Spring is a time of new beginnings, and that applies to wildlife too. As you step outside and start your seasonal routines, remember that raccoons, squirrels, and other creatures are also emerging with their own agendas, often involving your attic, shed, or backyard. A little caution and awareness can go a long way in ensuring your safety and theirs.

At Gates Wildlife, we’re committed to providing not just solutions, but the most humane solutions in the industry. Let us help you protect your home—and the animals that call your neighbourhood home too.