Common Winter Wildlife Problems in South Jersey Homes (December Guide)

acornwildlifellc
Dec 1, 2025
3 min read

Serving Burlington County• Camden County • Gloucester County

December marks the beginning of peak wildlife intrusion season in South Jersey. As temperatures drop, animals start seeking warmth, shelter, and reliable food sources — and residential homes become prime targets. At Acorn Wildlife, we see a surge of calls this time of year from homeowners dealing with animals settling into attics, crawlspaces, rooflines, and garages.

This guide covers the most common wildlife issues South Jersey homeowners experience in December and how to prevent them.

1. Rodents in Homes

Rodents are the most common winter invaders in South Jersey, especially in older homes across Moorestown, Cherry Hill, and Mount Laurel. As outdoor food sources disappear, mice and rats enter homes through surprisingly small gaps.

Signs to look for:

Droppings along walls, in cabinets, attics, or basements
Chewed wires, insulation, or stored items
Scratching or scurrying noises at night
Shredded materials used for nesting
Gaps around foundations, garages, or utility lines

Rodents reproduce quickly and create fire hazards by chewing electrical wiring, making prompt action important.

2. Squirrels in Attics and Rooflines

Squirrels often invade attics during December as they search for warm, protected nesting spots. Homes near wooded areas or tree-lined streets see especially high activity.

Common indicators:

Fast scampering in the attic at sunrise or dusk
Chewing damage on soffits, rooflines, or attic wiring
Moved or shredded insulation
Visible holes near vents, ridge lines, or attic fan housings

If ignored, squirrels can cause serious structural damage and electrical risks.

3. Raccoons in Attics, Chimneys, and Crawlspaces

Raccoons are strong, determined, and capable of tearing open soffits, vents, loose roofing, or chimney caps. Gloucester County and surrounding areas see frequent raccoon activity during early winter.

Signs of raccoon presence:

Heavy thumping or slow walking noises overhead
Torn insulation or disturbed ductwork
Large droppings concentrated in one area
Visible damage around roof corners or chimney areas

Raccoons can contaminate attic spaces and pose health risks, so professional handling is recommended.

4. Skunks Under Decks, Sheds, and Additions

Skunks commonly den under structures in December, especially decks, sheds, and additions where warmth collects.

What to watch for:

Burrows or disturbed soil near foundation edges
Odor around decks or crawlspaces
Tracks near outdoor food sources or trash
Low digging around the perimeter of the home

Even when they don’t enter the home itself, skunks can create ongoing odor problems and health concerns.

How South Jersey Homeowners Can Prevent Winter Wildlife Issues

Important prevention steps:

Seal gaps in soffits, siding, rooflines, and foundations
Install secure screening on attic vents and chimneys
Store bird seed, pet food, and trash in sealed containers
Address leaks or standing water
Inspect attics and crawlspaces regularly
Repair loose siding, soffits, and roofing before winter deepens
Schedule a professional wildlife inspection for peace of mind

Proactive prevention is always more effective and less costly than removing a fully established infestation.

Why December Is the Most Important Month for Prevention

December is the turning point into the harshest stretch of winter. Wildlife activity spikes now as animals settle into long-term shelter for survival. Homeowners in Moorestown, Cherry Hill, Mount Laurel, and Gloucester County often first notice scratching sounds, droppings, or roofline damage during this period.

Addressing problems early prevents:

Structural damage
Fire hazards from chewed wiring
Contaminated insulation
Long-term, recurring wildlife issues through January–March

Acorn Wildlife provides humane, effective wildlife removal and exclusion services to protect South Jersey homes all winter long.