how to get bats out of your house

3 min read 16-04-2025

Bats are beneficial creatures, but having them in your house is a problem. This comprehensive guide will teach you how to safely and humanely remove bats from your home, preventing future infestations.

Understanding the Problem: Why Bats Choose Your House

Bats often seek shelter in attics, chimneys, and wall voids because these places provide:

Darkness: Bats are nocturnal and need dark, quiet places to roost.
Protection: Your house protects them from predators and the elements.
Accessibility: Small gaps and openings provide easy entry points.

Identifying entry points is crucial to bat removal. Carefully inspect your home’s exterior, looking for small cracks, gaps around windows, and openings in the roofline or soffits. Consider using a flashlight and possibly binoculars for a thorough search, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

The Importance of Humane Removal

It is illegal in many places to kill bats. They are beneficial creatures that help control insect populations. Always prioritize humane removal methods. Trapping bats requires specialized equipment and permits in some areas. Contacting a wildlife professional is always a good option, especially if you are dealing with a large colony.

How to Get Bats Out of Your House: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Identify and Seal Entry Points (During the Day): This is the most important step. Bats will leave their roost at dusk, to find food. During the daytime, locate every possible entry point. Once you've identified them, seal these openings with materials that bats can't chew through, such as:

Steel wool: Stuff it firmly into cracks and gaps.
Hardware cloth: Secure it over larger openings. Ensure there are no gaps.
Caulk: Seal small cracks and gaps around windows and pipes.

Important Note: Do not seal all entry points at once. This could trap the bats inside, causing harm to them and creating a sanitation issue in your home.

2. One-Way Exclusion Devices (Optional): If you have many bats, or if sealing the entrances directly would trap them, you may want to install one-way exclusion devices. These allow bats to exit but prevent them from re-entering. These are typically installed by professionals.

3. Provide an Alternative Roosting Site (Optional): Consider providing an alternative safe space for bats, away from your home, such as a bat house. This reduces the chances of them returning.

4. Clean Up Bat Guano (After Bats Have Left): Bat guano (droppings) contains harmful bacteria and fungi. After the bats are gone, wear a respirator, gloves, and eye protection while cleaning up the guano. Dispose of it properly in sealed bags. It's often recommended to hire professional cleaners, as improper removal can cause health issues.

5. Prevent Future Infestations: Regularly inspect your home for any new openings or cracks. Repair any damage to prevent future bat entry.

When to Call a Professional

While many infestations can be handled independently, there are times when it is best to call a wildlife removal professional:

Large colonies: Dealing with a large colony of bats can be overwhelming and require specialized equipment and expertise.
Uncertain entry points: If you can't locate all the entry points, a professional can help.
Health concerns: If you suspect health problems due to bat exposure (like Histoplasmosis), seek medical advice.
Difficult-to-reach areas: If the entry points are in hard-to-reach locations, a professional with specialized equipment may be necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I know if I have bats in my house?

A: You might hear noises at night, find bat droppings (guano), or see bats flying around your house, especially at dusk.

Q: Are bats dangerous?

A: Most bats are harmless and beneficial, but they can carry rabies. Avoid direct contact and don't try to handle bats yourself.

Q: What should I do if I find a bat inside my house?

A: Carefully block off the room and try to gently guide it outside. If you're unable to do so, or if it has bitten someone, contact animal control or a wildlife removal professional.

Conclusion

Getting rid of bats from your house requires patience and the right approach. By following these steps and prioritizing humane methods, you can effectively remove bats from your home and prevent future infestations. Remember, prevention is key! Regular inspections and timely repairs will go a long way in keeping your house bat-free. If in doubt, consult with wildlife professionals for the safest and most humane solution.