Wildlife has always been surrounded by stories, rumors, and exaggerations. Some of these myths come from folklore, others from movies, and many from simple misunderstandings passed down over time. Unfortunately, these misconceptions often lead to unnecessary fear — or worse, poor decisions when people encounter wildlife.
Let’s set the record straight. Here are some of the most common wildlife myths and the truth behind them.
Myth #1: Wild Animals Are Aggressive by Nature
The truth: Most wild animals avoid humans whenever possible.
Aggression is typically a last resort. Wild animals may act defensively if they feel threatened, cornered, or are protecting young, but they don’t seek out confrontation. In urban environments especially, animals have learned that avoiding people is usually the safest strategy.
Most wildlife encounters end with the animal retreating long before a person even realizes it was nearby.
Myth #2: Seeing Wildlife During the Day Means Something Is Wrong
The truth: Daytime activity is often normal.
While many animals are nocturnal, daylight sightings can happen for many reasons:
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Searching for food
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Seasonal behavior changes
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Mild weather conditions
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Young animals learning to navigate their environment
Seeing a raccoon, fox, or skunk during the day doesn’t automatically indicate illness or danger.
Myth #3: Bats Are Blind and Aggressive
The truth: Bats can see just fine — and they avoid people.
Bats rely heavily on echolocation, but they are not blind. They can see well enough to navigate visually and are incredibly skilled fliers. Bats are also shy and rarely make contact with humans.
Their role in controlling insect populations makes them one of the most beneficial mammals in North America.
Myth #4: Opossums Are Dangerous and Carry Every Disease
The truth: Opossums are low-risk and highly misunderstood.
Opossums have a naturally low body temperature, which makes them less likely to carry certain diseases compared to other mammals. They’re also solitary, non-aggressive, and prefer to avoid conflict entirely.
Their “playing dead” behavior is not aggression — it’s a fear response.
Myth #5: Snakes Chase People
The truth: Snakes are trying to escape, not pursue.
When snakes move quickly toward a person, it’s usually because they’re fleeing toward shelter — not attacking. Snakes don’t hunt humans and gain nothing from confrontation.
Most snake bites occur when someone attempts to handle or kill the animal.
Myth #6: Wildlife Chooses Homes Because It’s “Comfortable”
The truth: Wildlife seeks safety, not luxury.
Animals don’t recognize homes as living spaces the way humans do. They’re drawn to:
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Warmth
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Shelter from predators
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Protection from weather
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Proximity to food
Structures simply meet survival needs better than exposed environments, especially during colder months or breeding seasons.
Myth #7: Raccoons Are Just “Big Rats”
The truth: Raccoons are highly intelligent mammals.
Raccoons have problem-solving skills comparable to some primates. Their dexterity and memory allow them to navigate complex environments, including urban infrastructure.
They’re adaptable generalists — not oversized rodents.
Myth #8: Skunks Spray Without Warning
The truth: Skunks give plenty of warnings.
Before spraying, skunks often:
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Stomp their feet
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Raise their tail
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Turn their back toward a threat
Spraying is a last-ditch defense, not a first response.
Myth #9: Wild Animals Can Easily “Find Somewhere Else to Go”
The truth: Urban wildlife has limited options.
As cities expand, natural habitat shrinks. Animals that appear “out of place” are often living within the only viable territory available to them.
Urban wildlife isn’t invading — it’s adapting.
Why These Myths Matter
Misunderstanding wildlife can lead to:
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Unnecessary fear or panic
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Unsafe interactions
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Harm to animals
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Increased human-wildlife conflict
Education is one of the most effective tools for reducing these issues. When people understand animal behavior, encounters become less stressful and more manageable.
Final Thoughts
Wildlife myths persist because they’re simple, dramatic, and easy to remember — but they’re rarely accurate.
Behind the rumors and legends are animals simply trying to survive in a world that’s increasingly shaped by humans. By separating myth from reality, we can better appreciate the wildlife around us and make smarter decisions when encounters happen.
The more we understand our wild neighbors, the better we can coexist with them.
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