Are bats taking over your home or barn? While they may be fascinating creatures, they can quickly become quite a nuisance. From the mess of their feces to the potential transmission of diseases, it’s important to know how to get rid of them effectively.
That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on Bat Busting 101: How to Rid Your Home of Pests! In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about identifying and preventing bat infestations, as well as the different types of bats you may encounter.
We’ll also discuss the importance of professional bat removal and provide effective DIY methods for chasing them away. Plus, we’ll dive into the health concerns and personal protective equipment you’ll need to stay safe during the process.
So, if you’re ready to take back control of your home and enjoy the freedom of a bat-free environment, keep reading!
Key Takeaways
- Preventative measures such as sealing entry points, trimming tree branches, and covering garbage cans and water sources can help prevent bat infestations.
- Professional bat removal companies like Orkin, Terminix, and Aptive can safely and effectively remove bats from homes.
- DIY removal methods should be approached with caution and proper protective equipment, and mechanical exclusion methods like sealing entry points and using bright lights can be effective.
- Bat guano carries harmful pathogens like histoplasmosis, so proper protective equipment should be worn when cleaning it up, and contaminated materials should be disposed of properly.
Bats as Pests
If you have bats roosting in your house or barn, you know they can cause a mess with their feces and potentially transmit diseases, making it important to know how to get rid of them.
Bats are considered pests because they can cause significant damage to your property and pose a threat to your health.
Their droppings, also known as guano, can accumulate quickly and create a foul smell. Moreover, bat droppings can transmit histoplasmosis, a respiratory disease caused by inhaling fungal spores.
Aside from the mess they create, bats can also damage fruits, crops, and other vegetation.
They are also known to carry rabies, posing a significant health risk to humans and pets.
Types of Bats
If you’re curious about the different types of bats that may be roosting near your property, it’s important to know that there are several common species to look out for.
The big brown bat is one of the most widespread in North America and can be found in both urban and rural areas.
They typically roost in buildings and trees and feed on insects such as moths, beetles, and flies.
Another common species is the Mexican free-tailed bat, known for its large colonies that can number in the millions.
They are found primarily in the southwestern United States and Mexico and can often be seen flying high in the sky in search of insects.
Other species to look out for include the hoary bat, which is the largest bat in North America and can be found in forests and woodlands, and the little brown bat, a small, insect-eating bat that prefers cooler, wetter climates.
Signs of Infestation
Now that you know the different types of bats, it’s time to identify whether or not you have an infestation in your home.
Signs of infestation include bats flying around your house at night, roosting in your attic or walls, a strong ammonia smell, and the accumulation of guano (bat droppings).
Bat guano looks similar to rat droppings, but it turns into a powdery substance when crushed.
Identification and Prevention
To prevent bats from roosting on your property, identify potential entry points and seal them off with materials such as caulk, mesh, or foam. Look for gaps in the roof, cracks in the walls, or broken screens on windows and doors.
Here are some other tips to help you identify and prevent bat infestations:
- Trim tree branches near your house to prevent bats from using them as a bridge to your roof.
- Keep your attic well-ventilated to prevent moisture buildup, which attracts insects that bats feed on.
- Install screens on all vents and chimneys to prevent bats from entering through these areas.
- Cover all outdoor garbage cans to prevent bats from feeding on leftover food.
- Avoid leaving open water sources such as fountains or bird baths, as bats are attracted to water.
Professional Removal Companies
Consider hiring a licensed, bonded, and insured professional removal company like Orkin, Terminix, or Aptive to safely and effectively remove bats from your property. These companies have the necessary expertise and equipment to safely exclude bats from your home and prevent them from returning.
They will also properly dispose of bat guano, a substance that can transmit diseases like histoplasmosis.
Professional bat removal companies typically use one-way exclusion doors to allow bats to leave but not re-enter your home.
This method is much more humane than trapping, which can harm the bats, and it ensures that all bats are removed from your property.
Additionally, professional removal companies will identify and seal any potential entry points to prevent future infestations.
By hiring a professional, you can ensure that your home is free from bats and the potential damage and health risks they can bring.
DIY Removal Methods
You can save money and take control of your bat problem by attempting a DIY removal.
Before starting, it is important to note that removing bats can be dangerous and should be approached with caution.
You can inspect your property for potential bat entry points using a flashlight and caulk to seal any cracks or gaps in your home’s exterior.
Bats can enter through openings as small as a quarter inch, so it is important to be thorough.
Use the table below to identify common entry points and potential solutions.
| Entry Point | Potential Solution |
|---|---|
| Attic vents | Install mesh screens |
| Chimney | Install chimney cap |
| Roofline gaps | Seal with caulk or foam |
| Windows | Cover with mesh screens |
Once you have sealed all potential entry points, you can install one-way bat exclusion doors to allow bats to leave but prevent them from returning.
It is important to note that trapping bats is not recommended as it can lead to the death of the animals and is often illegal.
When removing bats, it is crucial to wear proper personal protective equipment, such as gloves and a respirator, to avoid exposure to bat droppings and potential diseases.
DIY bat removal can be a cost-effective and empowering solution to your bat problem, but it is important to take necessary precautions and seek professional help if needed.
Health Concerns and Personal Protective Equipment
Protect yourself from potential health risks by wearing proper personal protective equipment when removing bats from your property. Bat droppings can carry harmful pathogens, including histoplasmosis, which can cause serious respiratory problems.
It is important to wear gloves, a mask, and protective clothing when cleaning up bat guano.
Additionally, if you’re removing bats from your property, it’s recommended that you wear long sleeves and pants to minimize skin exposure.
In addition to wearing protective gear, it’s important to properly dispose of any contaminated materials, such as bat guano and insulation.
Don’t vacuum or sweep up bat droppings, as this can send harmful particles into the air.
Instead, use a damp cloth or mop to clean up the area. It’s also important to properly seal off the area where the bats were roosting to prevent further contamination.
Bat-Proofing Methods
To prevent bats from returning, use mechanical exclusion methods such as sealing all entry points with caulk or mesh screens.
Bats can enter through openings as small as a quarter inch, so it’s important to inspect your home for potential entry points thoroughly.
Pay special attention to areas where pipes and wires enter the house, as these are common entry points for bats.
In addition to mechanical exclusion, scaring methods can also be effective in deterring bats.
Bright lights, such as floodlights or strobe lights, can be used to make roosting areas unattractive to bats. However, ultrasonic pest repellents and mothballs are not recommended as they haven’t been proven effective.
Remember, if you’re unsure of how to properly bat-proof your home, it’s best to consult with a licensed, bonded, and insured professional to ensure the safety of both you and the bats.
Effective Insect Control
Controlling insects in your yard and surrounding areas is crucial for deterring bats from roosting near your property. Bats are attracted to areas with abundant insect populations, so the best way to keep them away is by limiting their food source.
Here are three effective insect control methods:
- Backyard mosquito spraying: Mosquitoes are a favorite food of many bat species, so reducing their numbers can discourage bats from roosting near your home. Mosquito control companies can apply insecticides to your yard, killing off adult mosquitoes and larvae before they become flying pests.
- Residual insect repellents: These products can be applied indoors and outdoors to kill off crawling insects such as ants, beetles, and cockroaches. By reducing the insect population around your home, you can make it less attractive to bats.
- Natural predators: Encouraging natural predators such as birds, lizards, and frogs can help keep insect populations in check. By creating a habitat for these animals in your yard, you can create a natural balance that limits the number of insects in your area.
Conclusion
In summary, bats are important for our ecosystem, but they don’t belong in your home. Take action to become bat-free and regain the freedom of a pest-free home.
Now that you’ve got a better understanding of bats as pests and the potential health risks associated with their presence in your home or barn, it’s important to take action. Identifying and preventing infestations, as well as utilizing professional removal companies and DIY methods, can help you get rid of bats safely and effectively.
Remember always to use personal protective equipment and bat-proofing methods to prevent their return. Additionally, don’t forget about effective insect control to discourage bats from setting up shop in your home or barn.
With knowledge of the different types of bats and signs of infestation, you can take the necessary steps to ensure a bat-free environment. Don’t let bats take over your property – take action today to rid your home of pests and protect your health and well-being.
1 comment
Comments are closed.