Living in the Kaw Valley means sharing our surroundings with a diverse range of wildlife. While these animals are an important part of the local ecosystem, they can sometimes wander a little too close to home. Understanding their behavior and seasonal patterns can help you respond appropriately when wildlife visits your yard.
Common Wildlife Behaviors in Kaw Valley
Most local wildlife species are simply looking for food, water, and shelter.
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Raccoons are intelligent foragers, often searching trash cans, compost bins, and gardens for an easy meal.
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Squirrels are busy during the day, gathering nuts and seeds, and may be tempted by bird feeders.
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Skunks are nocturnal and might wander through your yard at night in search of insects or grubs.
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Opossums tend to move slowly, scavenging for leftovers and cleaning up fallen fruit or pet food.
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Snakes can be found sunning themselves on warm surfaces or hunting rodents in tall grass, gardens, and woodpiles. Most are non-venomous and help control pest populations.
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Birds range from songbirds to larger species like hawks and owls, often drawn to yards with feeders, water sources, or open hunting spaces.
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Groundhogs dig large burrows in open grassy areas and may feed on garden plants.
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Moles create underground tunnels while searching for insects and grubs, often leaving raised soil ridges in lawns.
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Gophers dig extensive burrow systems and feed on roots, tubers, and other vegetation, sometimes damaging gardens or landscaping.
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Bats are nocturnal insect-eaters that roost in trees, barns, and attics, providing natural mosquito control.
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Rats and mice are opportunistic feeders, nesting in walls, sheds, or cluttered areas where food and shelter are available.
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Coyotes are adaptable predators that may pass through neighborhoods in search of small animals, carrion, or unsecured trash.
While these behaviors may be harmless in the wild, they can become a problem when animals associate your property with easy resources.
Seasonal Patterns to Watch For
Wildlife activity shifts throughout the year:
Spring – Many species are nesting or raising young. Animals may look for safe, quiet spaces, such as under decks or inside attics.
Summer – Warm weather means abundant food sources, from gardens to insects. Wildlife may be more visible and active.
Fall – Animals focus on storing food or increasing fat reserves for winter, often becoming bolder in their search for supplies.
Winter – Some species enter a lighter hibernation or stay active but seek extra warmth, sometimes trying to enter homes or sheds.
Recognizing these patterns can help you take preventative measures before problems arise.
What to Do When Wildlife Visits Your Yard
If you notice an animal in your yard, the first step is to remain calm and keep your distance. Never attempt to touch or feed wild animals, as this can cause them to lose their natural fear of humans.
Here are a few safe steps to take:
Remove attractants – Secure garbage lids, bring pet food indoors, and clean up fallen fruit.
Block entry points – Check for gaps under decks, holes in fences, or open vents that could serve as shelter.
Use humane deterrents – Motion-activated lights, sprinklers, or noise makers can encourage animals to move on.
Call professionals – If an animal appears injured, sick, aggressive, or refuses to leave, contact a wildlife control specialist for safe, humane removal.
Living Peacefully with Local Wildlife
Wildlife in the Kaw Valley plays a vital role in keeping ecosystems healthy—controlling insects, pollinating plants, and spreading seeds. By learning about their habits and taking proactive measures, you can reduce conflicts and enjoy watching these fascinating creatures from a respectful distance.
If you’re dealing with persistent wildlife activity on your property, Critter Control of Kaw Valley offers safe, humane solutions to protect both your home and the animals that share our community.