Coyotes, Raccoons Spotted In Populated Metro Areas

It's not officially spring; however with the warmer temperatures, all kinds of critters like, coyotes and squirrels may be lurking in your neighborhood, even in your attic.

 According to Critter Control, an animal control company, squirrels are nesting and it's mating season" for coyotes. Last year, they removed five to seven squirrels at a time, per job, from people's homes.  This year, its two to three.

“As far as coyotes and foxes it’s kind of the peak of their breeding season. So your going to see a lot of animal activity," said Critter Control Field Manager, Chris Patterson.

You usually don't expect to see squirrels trying to get into your home. But, Critter Control's, Chris Patterson says squirrels are nesting and looking for safe places to have their young. Those havens might include your attic.

"When we opened one of the ways to get into the attic. We say two squirrels just sitting there,"  Homeowner, Fred Trawick said.

Patterson says for rodents, such as squirrels or raccoons, their increased presence may have to do with food availability. There's more vegetation in rural areas.

"For instance, in this subdivision there's really not enough habitat to support a large group of animals,” Patterson said.

Instead of staying in the woods you may find male coyotes lurking in broad daylight looking for females, since its breeding season. A coyote was spotted Wednesday in the parking lot of Alabama's 13 (WVTM-TV). Experts say the best thing you can do at home is not leave pet food out and keep your yard well maintained.

"If it lives in a suburban area, well populated, they seem to be a little bit tame, but still all animals are wild," Patterson said.

The biggest tip is let the experts deal with the unwanted guests.

Credits: By Scott Brown|Paris Jackson - Alabamas13.com