The Role of Seasonal Changes in Garden Wildlife Activity

Why Wildlife Patterns Shift Throughout the Year

The rhythm of the seasons has a strong influence on garden wildlife. As temperatures rise and fall, and food availability changes, different animals adapt their behaviours accordingly. For homeowners, this seasonal shift can mean periods of peace followed by sudden increases in activity.

Understanding how the time of year affects animal behaviour is the first step towards managing your garden more effectively. During some months, preventative measures are enough. In others, more active solutions, like using a humane squirrel trap, may be necessary to prevent damage or unwanted nesting in lofts and outbuildings.

Spring: Nesting and Increased Movement

Spring is a time of high energy in the natural world. Animals are focused on finding food, claiming territory and, for many, preparing to raise young. This burst of activity often brings wildlife closer to human spaces, particularly if gardens offer shelter, warmth or accessible food.

You may notice squirrels chewing bark from trees, birds nesting under eaves, or foxes searching for dens. It’s a good time to tidy hedgerows, check rooflines, and remove access to enclosed spaces before they become ideal nesting sites. If squirrels begin nesting in unwanted areas, early intervention is key to avoid long-term issues.

Summer: Food Sources Abound

With longer days and abundant vegetation, summer provides natural food sources for most wildlife. Gardens with fruit trees, vegetables, or bird feeders are especially popular. While this can be a great time to observe nature, it’s also when animals may become bolder in seeking out easy meals.

Regular maintenance, such as collecting fallen fruit and securing bins, goes a long way during the warmer months. If animals have already claimed your space as part of their routine, gently discouraging their return becomes important. For squirrels, this might include removing nesting materials and placing humane deterrents in high-traffic areas.

Autumn: Foraging and Food Storage

As temperatures cool and daylight hours shrink, many animals begin preparing for the winter ahead. Squirrels are particularly active in autumn, gathering and storing food in multiple locations, including gardens, sheds and attics if access is available.

You may notice more digging in lawns or damage to trees as animals prepare caches. This is when homeowners often first spot signs of a more serious intrusion. If the problem escalates, a well-placed trap provides a safe way to manage the issue without harming the animal. The goal is to intercept early before nesting becomes established indoors.

Winter: Shelter Becomes Priority

In the colder months, survival becomes the main focus for most garden wildlife. While activity may appear to decline, many species seek out warm, sheltered spaces to wait out the worst of the weather. This is often when problems with lofts, garages or wall cavities are discovered.

Squirrels, rodents and birds all look for secure areas to roost or nest. At this stage, prevention becomes more difficult if access points aren’t already sealed. If signs of intrusion appear, such as noise, droppings, or chewed materials, it’s important to act quickly and responsibly to remove the animals and prevent further entry.

Adapting to the Seasons

Garden wildlife is dynamic, changing with the seasons and responding to the resources available. By recognising these patterns, you can stay ahead of potential issues and respond appropriately throughout the year. Seasonal awareness allows you to protect your garden without resorting to harsh methods.

Simple routines, paired with the right tools when necessary, make it possible to enjoy a wildlife-friendly garden while keeping unwanted guests at bay.