From the shorter days to the changing of the color of the leaves, it is a guarantee that it’s already Fall season. Although this season is a beautiful time for nature, the animal kingdom is preparing for the winter to come. People usually get busy during the Fall season to get ready for the cold, and wildlife is just the same. Whether they are trying to eat as much as they can to prepare for hibernation, storing away food, or looking for a place to keep them warm, they do all of these during this season. Being aware of the animals that might make their way inside your house can help you put preventative measures. Here are a couple of animals that may make their presence known every fall.

1. Bats

As the temperature cools down, bats know it’s time to find a warmer place to live in. Similar to birds, some species of bats migrate like birds when temperatures get too cold. These types of bats need a specific kind of place. It usually tends to be dark, not too warm nor too cold and hidden away from their predators. Bats look for places that are easy to access, such as your attic or chimney. A large, unfinished basement is also a possible place to find them during this time. Make sure these places are well-sealed and the insulation hasn’t worn down.

2. Raccoons

As the seasons slowly transform, raccoons have to eat a lot to store energy and fat. They usually find supplements to their usual diet, such as finding their way into your trash. Although they are pretty much known for rummaging through the trash, this happens more often during the Fall season. With the use of their strong sense of smell, they can find edible trash. Which is why, during this time, make sure to keep all your trash sealed away in plastic bags and rinse out all garbage cans at least once a month. If you feel like this is not enough, consider spraying down your trash with ammonia to repel raccoons and mask that trash smell.

3. Squirrels

Squirrels usually try to fatten up during fall season in preparation for winter. These cute furry little fellas can be found everywhere during fall and winter while trying to eat double their usual diet. Squirrels are known for burying nuts to save for later, but they will eat just about anything! They will find just about any food-like item you leave scattered on the ground. During this season, make you keep all your trash sealed up in plastic bags. Takedown your birdfeed in fall because squirrels love birdfeeders as much as birds hate squirrels.