What's New in wildlife removal?
Wildlife Concerns Unique to Western Massachusetts Homes
Signs You Have Wildlife in Your Attic (and What to Do Next)
Signs You Have Wildlife in Your Attic (and What to Do Next)
Living in Western Massachusetts means enjoying beautiful forests, rolling hills, and the charm of four distinct seasons — but it also means dealing with local wildlife that sometimes gets a little too close for comfort.
Signs You Have Wildlife in Your Attic (and What to Do Next)
Signs You Have Wildlife in Your Attic (and What to Do Next)
Signs You Have Wildlife in Your Attic (and What to Do Next)
Your attic is warm, dry, and quiet — which makes it the perfect shelter for unwanted guests like squirrels, raccoons, bats, or birds. But how do you know if wildlife has moved in?
Bat Removal Season - Why Timing Matters
New Service! Hornet & Yellow Jacket Removal
New Service! Hornet & Yellow Jacket Removal
At 413 Wildlife, we specialize in safe and humane bat removal throughout Western Massachusetts. Bats play a vital role in our ecosystem, but when they roost in attics or walls, they can pose health risks and lead to wildlife damage that affects your property.
New Service! Hornet & Yellow Jacket Removal
New Service! Hornet & Yellow Jacket Removal
New Service! Hornet & Yellow Jacket Removal
Our licensed technicians locate and remove nests safely—whether they’re underground, in trees, walls, attics, or rooflines. We use specialized equipment and proven techniques to eliminate the threat and prevent reinfestation.
The Full Story
Wildlife Concerns Unique to Western Massachusetts Homes
Living in Western Massachusetts means enjoying beautiful forests, rolling hills, and the charm of four distinct seasons — but it also means dealing with local wildlife that sometimes gets a little too close for comfort. From historic homes in the Berkshires to newer properties in Springfield and Northampton, the combination of rural landscapes and changing weather creates ideal conditions for certain animals to seek shelter in and around homes.
1. Bats in Historic Attics
Western Mass is home to many older, historic houses with unique architecture and aging rooflines. These can have gaps perfect for small bat colonies, especially in late summer when young bats begin flying. While bats are important for insect control, they can carry diseases and create hazardous guano buildup.
Pro tip: Annual roof inspections and sealing gaps around vents and chimneys can help prevent colonies from moving in.
2. Squirrels and Attic Nesting
The abundance of mature oak and maple trees in our region means plenty of food for squirrels — and they often follow the food straight into attics for warmth during fall and winter. Their gnawing can damage electrical wiring, increasing fire risk.
Pro tip: Trim back tree branches at least 8–10 feet from your roof to reduce easy access points.
3. Skunks Under Porches and Decks
Wide open yards and older home foundations create prime denning spots for skunks, especially in spring. Besides their notorious odor, they can carry rabies and dig up lawns looking for grubs.
Pro tip: Install wildlife-proof lattice or screening around decks, sheds, and crawl spaces.
4. Raccoons in Chimneys and Garages
Raccoons are clever and adaptable — and in Western Mass, they often use chimneys, garages, and sheds as shelter during cold months. They can be aggressive when cornered and cause significant mess.
Pro tip: Install chimney caps and keep garage doors closed when not in use.
5. Mice and Rats in Winter
Cold New England winters push rodents indoors, where they can quickly multiply. Even small gaps in siding or foundation walls can serve as entry points.
Pro tip: Conduct seasonal perimeter checks and seal gaps with rodent-proof materials like steel wool and caulk.
6. Black Bears and Outdoor Food Sources
While not a daily concern, black bears are common in rural and wooded parts of Western Mass. Bird feeders, garbage cans, and outdoor pet food are prime attractants.
Pro tip: Store garbage in bear-proof containers and bring bird feeders in during spring and summer.
Conclusion:
Wildlife encounters are part of life in Western Massachusetts, but proactive prevention goes a long way. Regular home inspections, habitat management, and quick action at the first sign of intrusion can protect your property and your family.
If you suspect unwanted guests in your home or yard, Nuisance Wildlife Pros offers humane, effective wildlife removal services tailored to our region’s unique challenges.
Call/Text us at 413-454-2711 or send an email to us at 413wildlifepros@gmail.com
