As the weather cools down across the Texas Hill Country, many homeowners start to enjoy crisp mornings, changing leaves, and cozy evenings. Unfortunately, you’re not the only one looking for warmth and shelter this time of year — wildlife is, too. Fall marks the start of increased activity for many species, including skunks, raccoons, squirrels, and rodents. Each of these critters is either preparing for the colder months ahead or moving through their seasonal breeding cycles, making your home an appealing target.
At Varmint Masters Wildlife Removal and Pest Control, we understand how quickly a small wildlife issue can turn into a major problem. As experienced fall wildlife removal experts, our team helps families across the Hill Country and San Antonio areas stay protected and pest-free year-round.
Why Wildlife Activity Spikes in the Fall
During the fall months, local wildlife begins preparing for winter by seeking out warm, secure places to build nests or dens. Attics, crawl spaces, garages, and sheds provide ideal shelter from the cold, wind, and predators. For many animals, fall is also the time to mate or raise young before temperatures drop too low. That combination of seasonal instinct and comfort-seeking behavior makes Texas homes particularly vulnerable.
Whether you live in Boerne, Bulverde, Spring Branch, or San Antonio, being aware of which animals are most active this time of year — and what signs to look for — can help you protect your home before it’s too late.
Common Fall Wildlife Invaders in the Hill Country
🐿️ Squirrels
Fall is one of the busiest times of year for squirrels. After their late-summer breeding season, young squirrels begin venturing out on their own — often straight into nearby attics or eaves. They chew through siding, soffits, and roof vents to build nests for warmth. Once inside, squirrels can chew electrical wiring, damage insulation, and create noisy disruptions throughout the day. If you hear scratching or running in the ceiling during daylight hours, squirrels are a likely culprit.
🦝 Raccoons
Raccoons don’t hibernate, but they do prepare dens for winter and can remain semi-dormant during cold stretches. In the fall, they actively search for secure, dry spaces to spend the season — like chimneys, attics, and crawl spaces. Raccoons are strong and clever, capable of tearing through shingles, siding, or vents to get inside. They can also cause contamination with urine and feces, making quick and safe removal essential.
🐀 Rodents (Mice and Rats)
When temperatures drop, mice and rats head indoors to escape the elements and find steady food sources. Fall is the start of their peak indoor nesting season, which often lasts through winter. A single pair of mice can produce dozens of offspring in just a few months, so infestations grow rapidly. Rodents can chew wiring, contaminate food, and spread disease, which is why professional exclusion is far more effective than DIY traps.
🦨 Skunks
Skunks typically begin searching for winter dens in the late fall. They prefer dark, protected areas under porches, decks, and sheds. Although they don’t usually enter homes, their presence can be unpleasant (and smelly). Skunks may also dig under foundations, causing structural damage. Early detection and humane removal can prevent both odor problems and property damage as the season progresses.
Signs You Might Have Unwanted Guests
- Unusual scratching or rustling sounds in the walls or attic
- Foul odors near decks, crawl spaces, or garages
- Chewed wires, insulation, or food packaging
- Droppings, nesting materials, or grease marks along baseboards
- Visible holes or damage to exterior vents and eaves
If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s time to call the professionals. Attempting to remove wildlife yourself can be dangerous — especially when dealing with species that may bite, spray, or carry diseases.
Why Choose Varmint Masters for Fall Wildlife Removal
As a family-owned company staffed by trained wildlife biologists, we don’t just remove animals — we understand them. Our experts know how to identify entry points, safely remove animals, and seal up your home to prevent future invasions. We use humane and environmentally responsible methods that protect both your property and the local ecosystem.
Whether you’re dealing with squirrels in your attic, raccoons in your chimney, or rodents in your garage, our fall wildlife removal services are designed to restore your peace of mind quickly and safely. We serve the entire Hill Country, including Boerne, Bulverde, Spring Branch, New Braunfels, and north San Antonio.
How to Prevent Wildlife Intrusion This Fall
- Seal any gaps or cracks around your home’s foundation, eaves, and roofline.
- Trim tree branches away from the roof to limit easy access for squirrels and raccoons.
- Store pet food and bird seed in sealed containers.
- Keep trash bins tightly closed, especially at night.
- Inspect attics and crawl spaces regularly for signs of activity.
Taking preventive measures now can save you time, money, and stress later in the season. But if wildlife has already moved in, don’t worry — help is just a call away.
Contact Your Local Hill Country Wildlife Experts
Don’t wait until scratching in the walls turns into a full-blown infestation. Contact the trusted team at Varmint Masters today for safe and effective fall wildlife removal throughout the San Antonio and Hill Country areas. We’ll help you reclaim your home and keep unwanted guests out for good.
For more tips on humane wildlife management, visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife nuisance animal resources page.
