The United States is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife — from deserts and forests to wetlands and dense cities. But depending on where you live, certain animals are far more likely to cross paths with people than others.
What’s considered a “nuisance” species in one region may be completely absent in another. Climate, geography, and human development all influence which animals thrive near homes. Understanding these regional differences helps explain why wildlife issues vary so widely across the country.
Let’s take a tour of the U.S. and meet some of the most common wildlife nuisances by region.
Northeast: Adaptable Survivors
The Northeast’s mix of older homes, dense suburbs, and wooded areas creates ideal conditions for adaptable mammals.
Common wildlife nuisances include:
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Raccoons, often found in attics and chimneys
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Squirrels, nesting in roofs and wall voids
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Mice and rats, especially during colder months
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Skunks, denning under decks and sheds
Harsh winters drive many animals indoors, increasing human-wildlife overlap during fall and winter.
Southeast: Warm Weather Wildlife Pressure
The Southeast’s mild climate allows wildlife to remain active year-round, leading to constant interaction.
Frequently encountered species include:
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Raccoons and opossums, thriving in suburban areas
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Snakes, active much of the year
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Armadillos, digging and foraging in yards
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Bats, roosting in buildings during warmer months
High humidity, abundant vegetation, and long breeding seasons support large wildlife populations.
Midwest: Where Farmland Meets Suburbia
The Midwest’s combination of agriculture, open land, and growing cities creates unique wildlife challenges.
Common regional nuisances include:
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Groundhogs, burrowing near foundations
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Skunks, active around lawns and fields
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Raccoons, highly adaptable and widespread
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Moles and voles, tunneling beneath yards
Seasonal changes play a major role, with wildlife activity increasing dramatically during spring and fall.
Southwest: Desert Survivors Turn Urban Neighbors
The Southwest’s arid climate shapes a very different wildlife profile.
Common nuisance species include:
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Coyotes, increasingly common in cities
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Javelinas, damaging landscaping
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Snakes, seeking shelter during extreme heat
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Pack rats, known for nesting in structures
Urban irrigation and landscaping create pockets of resources that attract wildlife in otherwise harsh environments.
West Coast: Wildlife Meets Urban Density
From coastal cities to mountain regions, the West Coast supports a wide range of wildlife.
Common issues include:
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Raccoons, especially in urban coastal areas
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Skunks, frequently encountered in residential zones
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Squirrels and rats, thriving in dense cities
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Bats, using buildings as roosts
Mild coastal climates allow wildlife to remain active longer throughout the year.
Great Plains: Open Land, Big Movement
The Great Plains support wildlife that travels long distances across open terrain.
Common nuisance animals include:
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Coyotes, roaming both rural and suburban areas
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Prairie dogs, creating extensive burrow systems
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Skunks, common near agricultural land
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Rodents, abundant around grain storage and structures
Low population density doesn’t mean low wildlife presence — it often means larger territories and wider movement.
Why Wildlife Nuisances Vary by Region
Regional differences come down to:
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Climate and weather patterns
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Natural habitat availability
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Urban development style
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Food availability
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Seasonal pressures
Animals that thrive near humans are those best able to adapt to changing landscapes.
A Shared Landscape
What’s important to remember is that wildlife nuisances aren’t a sign of invasion — they’re a sign of adaptation. Animals are responding to environments shaped by human activity, finding ways to survive alongside us.
Education and awareness help reduce unnecessary fear and lead to better coexistence between people and wildlife.
Final Thoughts
From raccoons in the Northeast to coyotes in the Southwest, wildlife issues across the U.S. reflect the incredible adaptability of animals. Each region has its own cast of critters, shaped by climate, geography, and development.
Understanding which animals are common where you live — and why — helps turn surprise encounters into informed awareness. Wildlife isn’t the same everywhere, but it’s part of life almost everywhere.
Got Wildlife or Pests?
If you think that you have a wildlife or pest infestation problem, don't hesitate to reach out to us by calling 855-WILDLIFE or by visiting www.wildilfexteam.com for more information.
Thanks!
-Wildlife x Team International