Winter in New England is a magical season—sparkling snow, cozy fires, and the perfect excuse to curl up on the couch with a blanket and a book. Unfortunately, it’s also the season when wildlife and rodents seek shelter indoors. While the idea of sharing your home with mice, rats, raccoons, or squirrels is uncomfortable, the reality is far worse: these critters can cause significant damage by gnawing through wood, wires, and insulation.
Let’s take a closer look at the top winter wildlife invaders in New England, how to spot them, and practical steps you can take to keep them out of your home.
Top 4 Winter Wildlife Invaders in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, rodents are the most common winter invaders. According to Mass Bay Wildlife Management, “One of the more prevalent wintertime pests in this region is rodents, especially rat and mice infestations.” But they’re not the only culprits. Here’s a breakdown of the top offenders:
Winter Invader #1: Mice
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- Most common: House mice are (small, gray with large ears, and deer mice (brown with white underbellies.)
- How do they get in? Mice squeeze through openings as small as a dime, including cracks in foundations, gaps around pipes, and poorly sealed doors or windows.
- Where do they hide: Walls, attics, basements, garages – and anywhere with stored food?
- What to look for: Droppings (small and pellet-shaped), gnaw marks on food packaging, and scratching noises behind walls or in ceilings.
Winter Invader #2: Rats
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- Most common: Norway rats (large with a heavy build) and roof rats (slimmer and more agile.)
- How do they get in? Norway rats burrow into foundations or squeeze through lower-level gaps. Roof rats enter from above, using overhanging tree branches or power lines to access attics and roofs.
- Where do they hide: Norway rats prefer basements and lower levels, roof rats attics and rafters.
- What to look for: Larger droppings, greasy rub marks along walls, gnaw marks, and nesting materials like shredded paper or fabric.
Winter Invader #3: Racoons
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- Most common: Urban raccoons.
- How do they get in? Raccoons use their dexterous paws to open unsecured doors, latches, or even remove vent covers.
- Where do they hide? They typically nest near food sources, like attics near unsecured trash or pet food.
- What to look for: Noisy thuds or movement in the attic, overturned trash cans, and visible paw prints around entry points.
Winter Invader #4: Squirrels
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- Most common: Tree squirrels (they lose their natural nesting spots in the winter.)
- How do they get in? Squirrels chew through roofs and soffits or use vent openings.
- Where do they hide: Attics are their favorite nesting spots.
- What to look for: Scratching or scampering noises overhead and signs of gnawed entry points around your roofline.
Proven Tips to Keep Wildlife and Rodents Out of Your Home
Taking proactive steps now can save you from winter pest problems later. Here’s how to keep your home rodent-free:
Inside Your Home:
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- Store food in airtight containers
- Keep cabinets free of crumbs
- Regularly clean contact surfaces
- Declutter your basement and attic to eliminate nesting grounds
Outside Your Home:
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- Check for entry points such as cracks in the foundation, gaps around doors and windows, and openings around utility lines
- Trim tree limbs so rodents can't climb into your home
- Cut back ivy or other climbing vines from the side of your home
- Secure the lids on your trash cans
- Clear out your yard of fallen limbs, leaf piles, or debris
- Stack firewood far away from your home
- Cap your chimney
Partner with a Pro:
Don’t underestimate the value of having an ongoing pest plan with an expert pest control company. DIY rodent control doesn’t always work and professional exterminators know how to find entry points that most homeowners overlook. Check out more hidden facts about rodents in your home.
And, when it comes to raccoons and squirrels, wildlife exclusion has its own set of rules and techniques. Working with a certified Problem Animal Control (PAC) technician is the best way to protect your home, yourself, and the animal.
Keep Out Relentless Winter Invaders
Despite your best efforts, some intruders are relentless. Mice and rats can squeeze through even the smallest cracks, and raccoons and squirrels are experts at finding a way in. If you suspect rodents or wildlife have invaded your home, don’t wait—call in the professionals.
At Ford’s Hometown Services, we specialize in safe and effective rodent control and wildlife exclusion. Our team can identify entry points, eliminate infestations, and help prevent future problems. Call us today at 800-649-9992 or request an online quote to protect your home from winter’s most persistent invaders.