When you layer organic matter like dead leaves, grass clippings, vegetable waste and other items in a compost heap, it "warms up" as the items degrade into beneficial mulch. In the cold winter months, anything warm is potentially shelter for wild animals. If you are flipping the compost with a rake in the winter months, do it with caution: Frogs, toads and other small animals may be living inside. Better yet, wait until spring to flip the compost, when warmer weather means these animals will have found shelter elsewhere.
ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION