What Factors Determine Baby Season?

All year-round we have customers that are concerned about wildlife having babies in their attic (understandably so!). The good news is that raccoons, skunks and squirrels only have babies once or twice a year. And once fall hits most young are off on their own.

So, what factors determine the start of baby season? And how long does it last?

The start of baby season is determined by the weather. A mild winter will bring about an early baby season (like we saw in 2024). There were litters popping up in late February which is uncommon. We also saw late raccoon litters last year - likely due to an early season leaving enough time for a second round. 

On the flip side, a harsh and long winter will delay baby season.

“Baby season” technically runs from the start of the first litter to the fall when they leave their mother for good. This is why live trapping and relocating is never a good idea between that time frame. It’s a common misconception that once babies are venturing out of the den in summer they are self-sufficient. Their mom has lots to teach them!

So, what will this year bring? That remains to be seen - but whether we have a late winter or an early spring you can expect babies to start popping up soon. If you’re worried, be on the the lookout for:

1. An increase in noise or movement in your attic or wall spaces

2. Loud crying, chirping or squealing noises

3. An increase in activity from the mother

If you suspect any sort of wildlife in your home or on your property, whether they have babies or not, Gunning Wildlife Removal & Pest Control is here to help. We’ll conduct a thorough inspection and come up with the best course of action that benefits both the customers and the animals. We will never separate a mom from her litter and always install humane prevention and exclusion measures. Baby season is a bit trickier and solutions are formed on a case-by-case basis - so please bear with us in the coming months!

Gunning Wildlife Removal & Pest Control services Southwestern Ontario including Woodstock, London, Stratford, Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Brantford, Tillsonburg and surrounding areas.

Phone: (519) 421-2677

Text: (289) 987-0390

Email: info@gunningwildliferemoval.ca

Online Booking: https://www.gunningwildliferemoval.ca/contact-us