Bats are fascinating creatures that generally avoid humans, preferring to roost in quiet, isolated places like caves or outbuildings. However, it’s not uncommon for bats to take up residence in homes, particularly larger houses that offer undisturbed spaces such as attics. While some people may find bats intriguing, sharing your home with them can lead to serious problems. Here’s why it’s important to keep bats outside where they belong.
Contrary to popular myths, bats aren’t inherently dangerous, and encountering one won’t turn you into a vampire. That said, bats can carry rabies, and although cases are rare, it’s critical to avoid contact and remove them safely if they enter your home.
Bat droppings (guano) and urine can pose serious health risks. These wastes contain harmful bacteria that, over time, can contaminate the air and building materials. Urine can seep into porous surfaces, while guano can accumulate in cracks and crevices, increasing exposure to you and your family. Proper removal and cleaning are essential to prevent health hazards.
Bats aren’t just a health concern—they can also cause structural damage. They may roost in plumbing, insulation, or wooden beams, potentially clawing and chewing through materials. If left unattended, this can compromise your home’s integrity.
Additionally, bats leave behind rub marks from the oils on their bodies, often visible around entry points and roosting areas. These marks are a clear sign of bat activity and can indicate extensive hidden damage if not addressed.
Improperly sealing a home before all bats have safely exited can make matters worse. If exclusion work is done too early—or done incorrectly—bats can become trapped inside and seek alternate ways out, often ending up in living spaces like bedrooms or hallways. This not only increases the risk of contact but can also create stressful, unsanitary situations for homeowners.
Bats are nocturnal and therefore are most active at night after dusk and in the early morning as they leave and return from finding food. They can make high-pitched chirping and rustling sounds as they prepare to leave their roost. While subtle at first, these noises can become disruptive over time, particularly in homes with larger colonies.
Prevention is always better than reaction—taking steps to secure your home now can save you from health risks, property damage, and costly removals later. To deter bats from entering your home:
It’s important to contact professionals upon first sighting. Attempting to remove bats on your own is dangerous and can lead to injury or further damage to your home. Due to state wildlife regulations, bat removal—especially during breeding season and after birth, only partial bat removal work is allowed—full exclusion must wait until it’s safe for the bats, so professional handling is required. A trained wildlife and bat removal specialist has the tools, knowledge, and experience to safely and effectively remove bats and prevent future infestations.
Thomas Pest Services offers professional bat removal services in the Adirondacks, Saratoga, and throughout the Capital Region. Don’t wait until a small problem becomes a costly one—contact us today to protect your home and family from unwanted bat guests.