Bats
Latin Name: Myotis lucifugus
Bats are fascinating creatures and essential to ecosystems, as they help control insect populations and pollinate plants. However, when they invade human dwellings or structures, they can become a wildlife nuisance. Here's an overview of bats as nuisances and the concerns they bring:
Why Bats Become a Nuisance
- Roosting in Buildings: Bats often seek out safe, warm places to roost, such as attics, chimneys, and eaves. Once established, colonies can be challenging to remove.
- Guano Accumulation: Bat droppings (guano) can accumulate quickly, causing unpleasant odors, staining surfaces, and attracting other pests like cockroaches or flies.
- Health Concerns: Guano can harbor Histoplasma capsulatum, a fungus that causes histoplasmosis, a respiratory illness. Additionally, while rare, bats can carry rabies, posing risks to humans and pets.
- Noise and Smell: Colonies of bats can create scratching or squeaking noises at night, disturbing sleep. The strong ammonia-like odor from their guano and urine can permeate homes.
- Property Damage: Over time, bat guano can degrade wood, drywall, and insulation, leading to costly repairs.
Signs of a Bat Infestation
- Seeing bats flying near your home at dusk or dawn.
- Dark stains near entry points, caused by the oil from their fur.
- Finding guano in attics, near windows, or under eaves.
- Hearing high-pitched squeaks or rustling noises at night.
Prevention and Control
- Sealing Entry Points: Inspect your home for gaps or openings, such as vents, loose shingles, or cracks. Seal these areas with caulk, mesh, or other materials, ensuring bats are not trapped inside.
- Installing Bat Exclusion Devices: These allow bats to exit but not re-enter. It's essential to ensure all bats are out before sealing openings permanently.
- Professional Removal: Bat removal is regulated in many areas due to their ecological importance. Our local pest control professionals are equipped to handle exclusions humanely and in compliance with local laws.
- Guano Cleanup: After the bats are removed, thorough cleaning and disinfection of affected areas are necessary to prevent health risks.
Legal Protections
Many bat species are protected under state and federal laws. It's illegal to kill or harm bats in most cases, especially during their maternity season when young bats cannot survive on their own. This makes humane exclusion the preferred method of control.
Remember, inspections are free and you are better safe than sorry. Contact us today.