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Small Raccoons & Squirrels Noticed
It’s early May, and something very noticeable is happening across Stark, Summit, and Portage Counties: the young of the year are starting to make their debut.
At Frontline Animal Removal, we’re seeing a clear increase in calls from homeowners who are hearing — and sometimes seeing — baby raccoons, squirrels, skunks, and groundhogs around their properties.
Why the sudden uptick in activity? Simple — the babies are finally old enough to leave the nest.
While adult animals are usually stealthy and cautious, their offspring tend to be less discreet. Baby raccoons chatter and squeal when their mother leaves to forage. Squirrel kits thump and scurry as they explore the attic space. Groundhog pups may pop out from under a shed in broad daylight to munch on nearby vegetation. And skunk kits? You might see a small, wobbly line of them following mom across the lawn or even notice a sudden skunky odor if they get startled.
All of this new activity gets attention — and rightfully so.
From Hidden Nests to Noticeable Noises
Throughout March and April, many animals in our region gave birth in quiet, sheltered places — often inside people’s homes. Attics, soffits, chimneys, wall voids, crawlspaces, under decks, and behind shutters all provide perfect cover for mothers seeking a safe place to raise their young.
But now, as the babies grow stronger and more mobile, their presence is harder to ignore.
We’re currently fielding many calls where homeowners report scratching, chattering, and movement — especially in the early morning or late evening hours. These sounds often turn out to be the telltale signs of a nest of young animals getting ready to venture out. Sometimes, people even spot a group of baby raccoons sticking their heads out of a soffit opening or see young squirrels hopping across a roofline.
What to Do If You Suspect Young Wildlife
If you suspect animals — especially young ones — are in your home, it’s best not to wait too long to take action. Not only can wildlife cause property damage by chewing, digging, and soiling insulation, but removing them gets trickier if it’s not done with care. Young animals can’t be excluded like adults. They may still rely on their mother for food and warmth and aren’t capable of surviving on their own just yet. Trapping young animals in the house without their mother is to be avoided!
At Frontline Animal Removal, we approach these situations with a proven, two-step process:
- Removal: We assess whether the young are old enough to be safely removed or excluded. If not, we may set up a one-way system that allows mom to move the babies herself, or we’ll return at the right time to remove the entire family safely. Sometimes, the babies must be gathered by hand.
- Animal-Proof Repairs: Once the animals are out, we repair the entry point(s) so that no other animals can get in. This often involves replacing damaged materials, installing screening or flashing, or reinforcing vulnerable roof edges and soffits.
Timing matters — especially with baby animals. If babies are left behind during a removal or exclusion, they can die in the walls or attic, creating an odor issue and a new set of problems. That’s why we always prioritize a humane and well-timed solution tailored to the specific species and stage of development.
Baby Animals Today, Bigger Problems Tomorrow
A baby raccoon or squirrel may seem small and harmless now, but they grow fast and bring growing damage with them. Acting early keeps repair costs lower and avoids secondary issues like fleas, odors, or interior contamination.
Whether you’re in Akron, Canton, or Kent, if you hear strange noises in the attic, see baby animals around your home, or suspect wildlife activity, give Frontline Animal Removal a call. We specialize in safe removal, effective repairs, and long-term prevention — all done in accordance with Ohio law.
The babies are here — but they don’t have to grow up in your home. Let us help.