Spring Wildlife Advisory: Mothers Are Seeking Safe Nesting Spots

Local rescue urges homeowners to secure entry points before babies arrive

By BCNews Staff Writer

As spring approaches, many raccoons, squirrels, and opossums are either pregnant or preparing to give birth. According to Bolduc’s Wildlife Rescue in Boiling Spring Lakes, these animals are actively searching for warm, quiet, and protected places to raise their young — and human structures often fit the bill.

Attics, sheds, crawlspaces, and garages offer shelter from predators and the elements, making them ideal nurseries for wildlife. These animals aren’t attempting to be destructive; they’re simply following instinct and trying to keep their babies safe.

Early Prevention Is Key
Wildlife professionals emphasize that now is the time for homeowners to inspect and secure potential entry points. Loose boards, rooflines, vents, soffits, and gaps in siding are among the most common access spots.

If you hear activity but don’t believe babies are present yet, acting early can prevent a mother from settling in. Once young are born inside a structure, removal becomes significantly more complicated and stressful for both the animals and the homeowner.

Humane Hazing Can Help
If a mother animal is exploring a space but hasn’t given birth, humane hazing can encourage her to move along by making the area feel less safe and quiet:

– Leave a radio on, preferably talk radio
– Add light to dark areas, such as leaving attic lights on
– Increase human presence with occasional noise or movement
– Introduce an undesirable scent, such as a dog‑scented blanket or strong air freshener

These cues help signal that the space is no longer an ideal nursery.

What Not to Do
Bolduc’s Wildlife Rescue stresses that certain actions can cause unnecessary suffering and often create bigger problems:

– Never use poison
– Avoid traps
– Do not seal entry points if animals may be inside

Improper removal can lead to injured or orphaned young, or even dead animals inside walls or attics.

When in Doubt, Call a Professional
If you’re unsure whether babies may already be present, experts recommend pausing before taking action. Timing is critical, and the wrong move can separate a mother from her young.

Bolduc’s Wildlife Rescue says they are always available to help talk through situations and guide residents toward the most humane solution for both people and wildlife.

Bolduc’s Wildlife Rescue
Boiling Spring Lakes, 910.547.1545
Instagram: @bolducwildliferescue
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit wildlife rescue and rehabilitation organization.

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