Summer in Green Bay means more time outdoors—backyard barbecues, hiking, camping, and enjoying Wisconsin’s beautiful natural spaces. But you’re not the only one taking advantage of the warm weather. Wildlife activity peaks in the summer, and while many animals are harmless from a distance, some can cause problems if they move too close to home.
At Critter Control in Green Bay, we receive more calls in summer than at any other time of year. That’s because a wide range of critters become more active during the warmer months, often leading to unwanted encounters in attics, basements, garages, and yards. Here’s a look at the animals you’re most likely to see—and why it’s important to be cautious.
Raccoons
Raccoons are intelligent, adaptable, and incredibly common in both rural and urban areas of Green Bay. In summer, they’re out at night searching for food and may target unsecured trash cans, pet food, or compost bins. Female raccoons often raise their young during this time, making attics and crawlspaces ideal nesting spots.
Risks: Raccoons can carry diseases like rabies and raccoon roundworm. They’re also known to cause significant damage when nesting indoors.
Bats
Bats become especially active in summer as they hunt insects and raise their young. You might notice them flying around your home at dusk. While they play an important role in controlling mosquitoes, they can also roost inside attics, barns, and sheds.
Risks: Bats can carry rabies, and their droppings (guano) may harbor harmful fungi. If a bat enters your home, it’s essential to handle the situation safely and legally.
Skunks
Skunks are more active at night and often dig for grubs in yards or nest under porches and sheds. Summer is their breeding season, which means they’re more territorial and likely to spray if they feel threatened.
Risks: Besides their notorious odor, skunks can carry rabies and may damage lawns or landscaping.
Squirrels
Squirrels might seem harmless, but in summer, they can become a real nuisance. They’re known for squeezing into attics or soffits to nest, especially if they find food sources nearby.
Risks: Squirrels can chew through wiring, insulation, and wood, creating fire hazards and structural damage.
Groundhogs (Woodchucks)
These burrowing animals become more noticeable in summer as they dig large tunnels around decks, foundations, and sheds. Their dens can weaken structures and create trip hazards.
Risks: Groundhog burrows can lead to property damage, and they can become aggressive if cornered.
Opossums
Opossums are scavengers and are often seen foraging at night. They may seek shelter under decks or in sheds. While they’re generally non-aggressive, their presence can still be unsettling.
Risks: Opossums can carry fleas, ticks, and diseases, and they often attract other wildlife looking for food.
How to Stay Protected from Summer Wildlife
- Keep trash cans sealed and secured
- Feed pets indoors and avoid leaving food outside
- Inspect and seal small openings in your home’s exterior
- Install chimney caps and vent covers
- Trim tree branches away from your roof
- Keep an eye out for signs of droppings, scratching sounds, or disturbed insulation
Let Critter Control Team in Green Bay Handle It
Summer is meant to be enjoyed, not spent worrying about critters in your attic or raccoons in your trash. Whether you’ve spotted signs of wildlife or want to take preventive measures, Critter Control of Green Bay is here to help.
If wildlife makes its way into your home or yard, don’t try to remove it yourself. Many animals—especially those raising young or feeling cornered—can be unpredictable and dangerous. At Critter Control of Green Bay, we specialize in humane wildlife removal and prevention. Our licensed technicians know how to identify the issue, safely remove animals, clean up any mess left behind, and secure your home against future intrusions.