Then there is the time of day this occurred...
They smacked in to it really hard....
Also, if the serpentine belt snaps, you have no power steering or power brakes...
Critters: if it is cold and wet outside, they like to crawl up under the hood for shelter and warmth. They like gnawing on anything rubber...hoses, belts, wiring, etc. If they can crack an acorn open, they can bite through anything rubber.