There are lots of pieces and things to consider when you need to get rid of bats. Below we discuss some of the basics and reasons to look to professionals to do the job.
What are the signs you have a bat infestation
It is possible to do some basic detective work in and around your home to determine if there is an infestation. There are three major signs to look for:
- Visible Guano: Bat feces, also known as guano, are very distinct and easy to identify. With a general appearance similar to rodent feces, guano stands out because of its shiny flecks, which are the wings of insects the bat consumes. It also easily breaks down and, unlike rodent droppings, tends to accumulate in piles near the nest.
- Sounds: Bats make distinctive noises as they go about their business, including squeaking, crawling, and scratching. Bats are nocturnal so these noises are typically heard at night and as it gets dark or just before dawn breaks.
- Stains at Point of Entry: Bats need an entry and exit point into the home and travel in and out of that point throughout the night to search for food. When they do, the oily residue on their fur rubs off on the house itself, often leaving identifiable black and brown stains near that entry port. White streaks on windows may also be a sign of bat urine.
Exclusion over Extermination
While taking care of bats in the same way as you might do other pests you find – through extermination – may seem logical, but it is actually something we consider the last resort. (Some states even outlaw it – like Pennsylvania – to kill bats inside buildings). Bats are an important part of the ecosystem and play a critical role in the circle of life through insect control. In fact, one bat can eat upwards of 3,000 insects in just one night. Furthermore, a number of species are endangered and/or protected by different government agencies, and bat exclusion is your only option.
Another thing to be aware of is if one was to choose to exterminate bats, it is dangerous to you because bats are also mammals and the type of poison needed to kill them is equally harmful to humans.
The most effective and humane way to remove them from a home is through exclusion followed by sealing entry points and providing an alternate roost.
Dangers of DIY Bat Removal
While there are plenty of websites and DIY experts that offer bat-removal solutions for homeowners, trying to eliminate a colony on your own is both dangerous and often futile. It is dangerous because bats also harbor a number of viruses that they can pass on to humans. Coming into contact without the proper protection and vaccinations puts you at risk.
Dangers include contracting viruses such as rabies or picking up parasites such as fleas. Furthermore, guano also presents a health risk and are dangerous to remove without professional training. Bat droppings are known carriers of histoplasmosis, an infectious fungus that causes lung and breathing problems
Hiring a professional to get rid of bats is essential. They will make sure you are not at risk while removing them. They will clean and restore the area from the damage created
If you feel you have a need to get rid of bats, the contact the expert team at BatPro® at 616-894-0699 or simply fill out our easy contact form to get in touch
Counties We Serve in West/Central Michigan
Isabella, Kent, Mecosta, Montcalm, Muskegon, Newaygo, Ottowa