Texas summers bring more than just soaring temperatures—they also trigger a surge in wildlife activity, especially in residential neighborhoods. As urban development spreads and natural habitats shrink, encounters between humans and wildlife become increasingly common, especially during the hottest months of the year. For homeowners across Dallas, Fort Worth, Southlake, Keller, and other North Texas communities, it’s not unusual to spot raccoons, opossums, armadillos, skunks, and even snakes making their way into yards, garages, attics, and crawl spaces.
At Jacksons Mosquito & Pest Control, we’re seeing a growing number of calls each summer for wildlife removal and exclusion services. If you’re wondering why animals seem to gravitate toward your home during this season—and how to keep them out—this article covers what you need to know.
Rising Heat and Scarce Resources
During the peak of summer, extreme heat and drought conditions can make it difficult for wildlife to find food and water in their natural habitats. Streams dry up, vegetation thins out, and the hunt for nourishment gets tougher. As a result, animals are drawn toward neighborhoods where water from sprinklers, pet bowls, and birdbaths is readily available—and trash bins, gardens, and compost piles offer easy meals.
Backyards, crawl spaces, attics, and garages provide shelter from the heat, making them highly attractive to wildlife looking to escape the sun. In fact, structures like sheds, under-deck areas, or open vents can offer the perfect combination of darkness, safety, and consistent temperatures for nesting.
Urban Expansion and Habitat Loss
As housing developments expand into rural areas and natural spaces shrink, animals are forced to adapt. That means they’re more likely to coexist in close proximity to humans, especially in suburbs and new construction areas where tree lines or greenbelts have been disturbed. Many species, like raccoons and opossums, are highly adaptable and opportunistic—they’ve learned that neighborhoods often offer more consistent access to food and shelter than the wild.
This is especially true during summer, when juvenile animals born in the spring are old enough to start venturing out on their own, increasing the likelihood of activity in your yard or home.
Common Summer Wildlife Problems in North Texas
Understanding which animals are most likely to become a problem in the summer months can help you stay alert and take action early. Here are the top offenders:
- Raccoons: Smart and agile, raccoons will rifle through trash, rip open roof vents, and nest in attics. They’re most active at night and are notorious for making messes.
- Opossums: These scavengers are attracted to pet food, garbage, and compost. Though generally non-aggressive, they can create a nuisance and damage property.
- Armadillos: Known for digging, armadillos can destroy lawns, gardens, and landscaping as they hunt for insects and grubs.
- Skunks: These nocturnal animals often burrow under decks or sheds and pose a risk of spraying if startled.
- Snakes: Drawn to cool, dark spaces and sources of water, snakes can occasionally find their way into garages, crawl spaces, and shaded yard areas.
Each of these species can cause damage, spread disease, or create health and safety risks—particularly if they come into contact with pets or children.
Signs of Wildlife Activity Around Your Home
If you’re unsure whether animals are targeting your property, there are several signs to look for:
- Unusual noises in the attic, walls, or under the house (especially at night)
- Droppings around entry points or in hidden areas
- Trash disturbances or missing pet food
- Damaged vents, siding, or roofing materials
- Burrows or holes in your yard or flower beds
The sooner you notice these signs, the easier and safer it is to address the issue before it escalates.
Professional Wildlife Removal and Exclusion
At Jacksons Mosquito & Pest Control, we specialize in safe and humane wildlife removal, followed by exclusion services that prevent animals from returning. We begin with a thorough inspection to identify entry points and signs of nesting. Once the animal is safely removed using ethical trapping methods, we seal openings and offer recommendations to reduce future attractants.
Our exclusion process includes:
- Sealing holes and gaps in siding, vents, and roofing
- Installing heavy-duty screens on crawl space and attic openings
- Recommending changes in outdoor habits like trash management and pet food storage
This proactive approach ensures your home stays protected not only during summer but year-round.
Call Jacksons Before Wildlife Becomes a Problem
Wildlife may be a natural part of Texas life, but they shouldn’t be a part of your home. Summer creates the perfect storm of heat, hunger, and habitat loss—leading animals to seek refuge in neighborhoods like yours.
Contact Jacksons Mosquito & Pest Control today for a free wildlife removal and exclusion consultation. Let us help you keep your property safe, clean, and wildlife-free this summer with professional solutions you can trust.