With colder temperatures arriving, homeowners may soon find themselves playing reluctant hosts to unwelcome guests like mice and squirrels. Marcus Mueller, owner of Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control, shares insight into why rodents become more active as winter approaches. “As soon as temperatures start to drop below freezing at night, we see a rise in rodent activity,” he explains. “They’re looking for warmth and shelter, just as we are.”
During the winter season, many animals seek food and protection from the elements. Mueller notes that homes offer everything they need. “Our homes provide shelter, warmth, and sometimes even food—exactly what they’re looking for,” he says. He explains that while homes aren’t designed to attract wildlife, their structure often unintentionally does. Attics, for example, can mimic a tree cavity, making them ideal for critters like squirrels.
For homeowners, identifying early signs of rodent activity can help avoid larger issues. “Scratching sounds in walls, chewed wiring, or visible droppings are often the first signs,” Mueller says. In extreme cases, even noticeable odors can indicate an infestation. He advises homeowners to check areas where animals might enter, like gaps in roofing or foundation cracks, and keep vegetation trimmed around the house.
Mueller’s team at Skedaddle employs humane, minimally invasive methods. They use specialized one-way doors to guide animals out safely, allowing them to find alternate shelters. “By identifying entry points and installing one-way doors, we help animals relocate themselves. It’s efficient and kinder,” he explains. This approach also addresses misconceptions about animal control, which many believe requires extermination. “Removing one raccoon or mouse just leaves space for another,” he says. “Wildlife-proofing homes is about taking away access, not removing animals.”
Winter is one of their busiest times. “We’re seeing more calls than ever in the Madison area,” Mueller reports. His team is out daily conducting inspections, with full wildlife exclusions happening at least twice a day. When asked about his work, Mueller recalls one memorable incident involving a skunk with its head stuck in a bait box. “After an hour of careful coaxing, we freed it. It was a great reminder of the importance of humane solutions.”
Homeowners should consider calling professionals rather than tackling wildlife issues themselves. Mueller notes, “When wildlife is involved, the situation can quickly become unpredictable or even dangerous.” He encourages using trained professionals who know how to address unique situations safely and effectively.
For tips on reducing the appeal of homes to wildlife, Mueller advises keeping mulch away from siding and regularly checking for roof damage. “Maintaining a few feet of clear space around your home’s foundation can make a big difference,” he suggests. Tracking animal paths in the snow is another helpful way to spot active entry points around the property.
