CT Drivers Urged to Check for Animals Under the Hood, Expert Says

Everyone’s looking for a warm place to hide during the winter — and that includes furry creatures. According to I-95’s wildlife expert, Jen the Zookeeper, animals sometimes crawl into car engines to stay warm. Her advice: take a quick peek under the hood before you start your car this winter.

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Tiny Hitchhikers: Why You Should Check for Rodents in Your Car Engine This Winter

When the temperature drops, everyone looks for a cozy place to stay warm — including some very uninvited guests. Mice, rats, and even chipmunks see your car’s engine bay as a five-star winter resort: it’s warm, dark, and often filled with soft insulation perfect for nesting. Unfortunately, their “renovations” can lead to chewed wires, clogged filters, and expensive repair bills.

Why They Move In:
Rodents are drawn to the residual warmth of your car after you park it. If your vehicle sits idle for a few days, especially outdoors or near vegetation, it’s basically an open invitation. Some modern car wiring even uses soy-based insulation — a tasty snack for a cold little critter.

Read More: Why Connecticut's Wildlife Seems to be Losing its Mind Lately 

How to Spot the Signs:

• A sudden whiff of something musty or unpleasant when you start the car.
• Bits of shredded paper, leaves, or fabric under the hood.
• Odd noises or warning lights caused by chewed wires.
• Tiny paw prints on your windshield or under the hood.

Prevention Tips:

• Pop the hood and give it a quick look every few days.
• Park away from tall grass or piles of leaves.
• Use rodent repellents like peppermint oil sachets or electronic deterrents.
• Keep your garage tidy — clutter is rodent paradise.

A quick two-minute check could save you hundreds of dollars (and a lot of rodent drama). This winter, make it a habit to peek under the hood — because nobody wants to share their morning commute with a family of mice!

Keep it Wild!

More on Jen the Zookeeper

Jen has spent more than 30 years immersed in the fields of animal care, conservation, and science education. As the former Director of Animal Care for The New Canaan Nature Center in Connecticut, she oversaw the care of native mammals, reptiles, and birds of prey while educating the public about the important roles these wild neighbors play in our ecosystem.

Her experience also includes time with both the Bronx Zoo and the Los Angeles Zoo, where she focused on the care of African and Asian wildlife and helped teach visitors about the delicate balance between humans and natural habitats.

Later, while working at a wildlife sanctuary in Half Moon Bay, California, Jen played a key role in training and handling nearly 50 exotic species. She also developed educational programs for at-risk and foster youth, helping historically underserved kids build trust, confidence, and healing connections with the non-releasable animals at the sanctuary.

In addition to her extensive wildlife work, Jen has experience in horse and dog training, animal control, veterinary care, and all things conservation education. Today, she owns and operates Jen Kotkin Pet Care, where she provides personalized care, exercise, and enrichment for dogs, cats, horses, birds, and more.