Pest Library
Wildlife
Squirrels, raccoons, bats, skunks and groundhogs around the home.
Overview
Wildlife complaints follow the seasons: squirrels in attics in late winter and again in late summer, raccoons looking for denning space in spring, bats in attics through the summer, and groundhogs and skunks burrowing under sheds, decks and porches.
The evidence is usually noise, damage at a roofline or a burrow opening rather than sightings. Wildlife work is regulated in New York and often requires a licensed nuisance wildlife control operator.
Why they're common in the Hudson Valley
- Extensive woodland, parkland and river corridor habitat sits directly against residential neighborhoods.
- Mature trees overhanging roofs give squirrels and raccoons easy roof access.
- Older homes and outbuildings offer soffit gaps, uncapped chimneys and open crawlspaces.
Signs of activity
- Heavy scratching, thumping or rolling sounds in the attic — louder than rodents
- Chewed or torn soffit, fascia, roof edge or ridge vent
- Droppings or a strong odor in an attic or crawlspace
- Burrow openings under a deck, shed, porch or slab
- Insulation disturbed, matted or pushed aside
Where you'll find them
- Attics, soffits, ridge vents and chimneys
- Under decks, porches, sheds and additions
- Crawlspaces and garages
- Yard burrows near foundations and outbuildings
Why it matters
- Wildlife can cause significant damage to roofing, insulation, ductwork and wiring.
- Droppings and nesting material create sanitation issues and can introduce parasites.
- Bats and rabies-vector species have specific legal handling requirements in New York — do not attempt removal yourself.
Prevention
- Trim branches back from the roof
- Cap chimneys and screen attic, gable and dryer vents with sturdy metal
- Repair damaged soffit, fascia and roof edges promptly
- Install barriers or trenched screening around deck and shed skirting
- Secure trash containers and remove outdoor food sources
When to get an inspection
- You hear large-animal activity overhead, especially during the day
- You see damage at the roofline or a burrow at the foundation
- You suspect bats — do not disturb them; handling is regulated
- You need entry points identified and sealed after removal
Something bigger in the attic or under the deck?
If the activity keeps coming back, an on-site inspection is the reliable next step.