I live in NW PA (very rural, 50 miles south of Erie). I’m confused about the changing critters in my yard.

First summer, half a dozen raccoons. Cute ones, especially in a family. Had a brief black bear visit. Didn’t bother me. I lived in northern NJ where we had black bears daily.

Second year, groundhog moved in under my deck. Also cute. Not concerned about the foundation as it’s a standalone deck. But no more raccoons. Possum visited a couple of times (yeah - eat the ticks please).

This year, so far just a few sightings of the groundhog. No other critters (except a turtle that moved into my tiny pond).

So does one of these keep the others away? Or is it just a natural variation from year to year.

In my 20 years at my house in a neighborhood, I have seen all kinds of wildlife. Nothing stays long and it depends on how generous I am with the birdseed. Deer, turkey, groundhog, vole, rabbits, squirrels and a neighborhood hawk that takes care of most small animals.

Never seen a rabbit or turkey. I don't see many squirrels either since changing to squirrel proof feeders. Plenty of deer. They eat my lilies along the driveway.