These Montana Creatures Might Be Trying to Get Inside Right Now
You might think that the changing of leaves is a sure sign that fall is here, but there's another indicator that you may want to keep an eye out for.
This weekend I was looking out my window into my backyard, sort of staring off and letting my mind wander when something caught my eye. Something was moving quickly through my yard. When it was within about 10 feet of my window I saw that it was a mouse, and it was coming right for my back door. In fact, it looked like it knew exactly where it was going!
I went outside to see if I could scare it away, but I couldn't find it again, which makes me think it's already found a place to get in my house as the weather gets colder, much to my dismay. You may be noticing other creatures are starting to show up in places you wouldn't expect them to be. Here are three to look out for as summer turns to autumn in Montana.
Spiders
In Montana, August and September are known as the months when Hobo Spiders or House Spiders make their way inside. As the Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium points out in their post, you don't have to worry about these spiders as they're generally harmless. Still, it might be alarming to come across one. Ask a brave person to transport it outside using an empty jar. I have one in my house that's labeled "Spider Jar" so we don't accidentally use it for something else.
Rodents
Besides spiders, rodents might be one of the more frequent creatures to try to seek shelter in your living space. I've heard of Montanas who have had to contend with marmots getting into their garage. There's also always the chance that you might end up with a family of squirrels in your chimney.
Related: Watch a Duck Ride the Waves on Montana River with Surfers
If you are seeing rodents around, it may also attract another animal that could be trying to get in your home.
Snakes
Yes, if you have mice around your home, eventually it might attract snakes, too. Of course, snakes also appreciate warmer temperatures so you may find a snake inside your garage, outdoor shed, or basement. Be careful, one pest control service explains that if you have a cluttered basement they may even try to use it for nesting.
Tips for Keeping Unwanted Creatures Outside
- Keep piles of refuse and clutter to a minimum, both indoors and outdoors
- Don't leave outside doors open
- Check your chimney and close any doors or screens to the fireplace