Raccoons in a tree, Quadzilla99

Perhaps you enjoy squirrels, or understand the healthy role bats play in an ecosystem. Or perhaps your small outdoor area borders on an open space such that raccoons or even foxes visit.

No matter the situation, think carefully before attracting mammals to your outdoor area.

Considerations

Some items to consider:

• Feeders may attract rats, although careful placement of the feeder will prevent rodent access
• Raccoons may enjoy certain types of critter food -- bird suet, squirrel corn, and more
• Bears have been known to knock over pole-mounted bird feeders (of course, this is more likely in Denver than in Houston!)
• Unless you have suitable habitat near your outdoor area, don't count on larger animals like fox or deer

The Critters

Opossum, Drcyrus

In addition, rabbits, raccoons, possums, mice, and shrews are also fairly common urban and suburban areas. More rare in urban/suburban areas are skunk, mole, prairie dog, fox, deer, bear, coyote, bobcat, cougar, and other larger mammals.

The Larger They Come, The More Caution

Above and beyond dumped trash cans and browsed vegetables and shrubs, these larger animals must be attracted or even just viewed with caution. They can be threats to your loved ones and pets, directly or by disease via ticks and fleas.

Highly Entertaining

The negative having been said, mammals can be tremendously entertaining. Just take a look at the myriad squirrel feeders out there -- most are designed specifically to make squirrel watching a highly enjoyable experience.

And don't forget about bats -- they're as healthy to have around as any other critter we talk about here at the Wildlife Porch. And they eat mosquitoes!