Summer Wildlife in Southeast Michigan

As summer arrives in Southeast Michigan, the region comes alive with a variety of wildlife species. Warmer temperatures and longer days mean more activity for animals in search of food, shelter, and breeding opportunities. While this seasonal shift is beautiful to observe, it can also lead to increased encounters between people and wildlife. Understanding which animals are most active in the summer and how to coexist with them can help protect your home and your health.

Common Summer Wildlife in Southeast Michigan

Raccoons
Raccoons are nocturnal mammals often seen scavenging through garbage cans or sneaking into attics and crawlspaces. During summer, females are especially active as they care for their young. Raccoons can carry several diseases, including rabies and leptospirosis, both of which can pose serious risks to humans and pets.

Squirrels
Gray and fox squirrels are commonly seen darting across yards and climbing trees. In summer, they are busy gathering food and may seek shelter in attics or chimneys. While generally harmless, squirrels can spread parasites like fleas and ticks and cause structural damage by chewing on wood or wiring.

Bats
Michigan is home to several bat species, such as the little brown bat. Bats become particularly active in summer evenings as they feed on insects. Although beneficial for insect control, bats can carry rabies and histoplasmosis—a respiratory illness caused by inhaling spores from bat droppings (guano).

Skunks
Skunks are most active during the summer mating season and may burrow under porches, sheds, or decks. Known for their strong odor when threatened, skunks can also carry rabies and are often hosts to ticks and other parasites.

Groundhogs
Also known as woodchucks, groundhogs are active during daylight hours and often dig large burrows in lawns and gardens. These burrows can undermine foundations, patios, and driveways. While groundhogs are not known to carry many diseases, their digging can create hazards and attract predators.

Coyotes
Although more elusive, coyotes are present even in suburban neighborhoods. Summer is pup-rearing season, and sightings tend to increase. Coyotes are typically not aggressive, but they can pose a risk to small pets and occasionally spread diseases like mange and distemper.

Opossums
These nocturnal marsupials are often seen scavenging at night and may take up residence under sheds or decks. Opossums rarely pose a direct threat to humans and actually help control insect and rodent populations. However, they can carry diseases like tuberculosis and coccidiosis, and their presence can attract other pests.

Health Concerns and Disease Risks

Human-wildlife interactions can increase the risk of disease transmission. Here are a few health threats associated with common summer wildlife:

  • Rabies: Found in raccoons, bats, and skunks. Transmission occurs through bites or scratches.

  • Leptospirosis: Spread through raccoon and rodent urine; causes flu-like symptoms and can lead to liver damage.

  • Histoplasmosis: A fungal infection linked to bat and bird droppings.

  • Tick-borne illnesses: Animals like deer and squirrels may carry ticks, which can spread Lyme disease or anaplasmosis.

Tips for Humane Wildlife Management

While wildlife is an important part of Michigan’s ecosystem, it’s important to protect your home and family using humane, responsible methods. Here are a few preventative tips:

  • Secure trash and compost bins with animal-proof lids.

  • Seal entry points in attics, chimneys, and crawlspaces.

  • Use motion-activated lights or sprinklers to deter nocturnal animals.

  • Trim tree branches that provide easy access to your roof.

  • Avoid feeding pets outside, as this can attract unwanted visitors.

If animals have already entered your home or property, it’s best to contact a licensed wildlife control company that prioritizes humane removal and exclusion techniques.

A Balanced Approach

Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors, but being mindful of the wildlife that shares our environment is key to staying safe and respectful. With the right knowledge and a few preventative steps, homeowners in Southeast Michigan can peacefully coexist with the animals that call this region home.

For humane wildlife solutions and inspections, contact Wildlife X Team of Southeast Michigan to keep your home protected all summer long.