While it is true that winter officially starts on the 21st day of December, the days have already grown shorter and the cooler temperatures have finally arrived. As a result, many types of wildlife have initiated an assortment of different strategies.
In most instances, these are triggered by a general lack of food rather than the onset of the cold. In this brief guide, we will outline 3 different ways that our local wildlife cope with the winter in both North Carolina and South Carolina.
Migration
Migration is a type of seasonal movement of various types of animals from one area to another area. These animals indulge in this act in order to reach an area for breeding purposes or to have access to food.
Many may move across the ocean, while others will just go beneath the frost line. Then, there are those that move towards the South, where the weather is warmer. Some forms of wildlife will move from the top of mountains to the bottom. It varies.
Wildlife in the Carolinas that is known for migrating include cardinals, hawks, monarch butterflies, chickadees, earthworms, and goldfinches.
Brumation
Amphibians and reptiles indulge in the act of brumation. It is quite similar to hibernation, but the creatures do not engage in the sleep process. Instead, they simply go dormant after burrowing underneath the ground.
There are some critters – such as snakes – that will create a den, all together. Many will go just slightly underground and others will go as far as a foot or more under the ground – depending on the temperatures. Common wildlife that engages in the brumation process include turtles, frogs, snakes, and even lizards!
Hibernation
In the fall months, certain types of wildlife will start eating foods that will build up brown fat within their bodies. Then, they will go someplace secluded and fall into a very deep sleep. The temperature of the body drops to that which is just above freezing and their heart rate drops significantly.
It is almost completely impossible to wake them. In the Carolinas, it is bats and even groundhogs that go into this state. While other animals – such as bears, raccoons, and skunks – do go into a nap-like state, they can be easily aroused.
In fact, on days that have warmer temperatures, you will often see these critters come out of hiding and look for a little snack.
Contact Us Today
During the winter months, you may find yourself a bit troubled by wildlife. In most instances, they are seeking out a place to get warm, water, or a food source. While they do not intend to cause issues to humans, their movements could result in just that.
If you find yourself troubled by any type of wildlife, contact us here at Palmetto Wildlife Extractors. We have the knowledge, resources, skills, and tools, to remove, remediate, and even rehabilitate.
For more information about our services, or to set up an appointment for assistance, you may contact us immediately by calling: 855-465-1088