How Do You Know If You Have Bats?
Bats can be a significant nuisance if they find their way into your home or commercial property. Known for carrying diseases like histoplasmosis and rabies, these winged intruders can also cause unpleasant odors and structural damage with their droppings.
But how do you know if bats have taken up residence in your space? Here are some telltale signs to watch for.
Signs of a Bat Infestation
1. Unusual Noises at Night
Bats are nocturnal creatures, so you’re most likely to hear them during the night. Listen for high-pitched squeaks, rustling, or flapping sounds, particularly in attics, chimneys, or walls. These noises can indicate bats moving around or leaving their roost to hunt for food.
2. Stains on Walls or Ceilings
As bats enter and exit your home, they can leave greasy, dark stains from their bodies around their entry points. You might notice these marks on walls, ceilings, or near attic vents. If you see any unexplained dark smudges, it could be a sign of bat activity.
3. Bat Droppings (Guano)
Bat droppings, also known as guano, are a common indicator of their presence. Guano resembles small, dark grains of rice and often accumulates below their roosting spots. Unlike mouse droppings, guano tends to crumble into powder when touched. Finding piles of guano in attics, on window sills, or around your property is a strong sign of bats.
4. Strange Odors
The accumulation of guano and urine can produce a strong, ammonia-like odor. This smell can permeate your living space and is particularly noticeable in enclosed areas like attics or crawl spaces. If you notice a persistent, unpleasant smell in your home, it may be time to investigate further.
5. Visible Bats
Seeing bats flying near your home at dusk or dawn can indicate a nearby colony. While occasional sightings may be normal, frequent appearances could suggest bats have established a roost within your property.
6. Small Entry Points
Bats can squeeze through openings as small as 3/8 of an inch. Inspect your home for small gaps or holes, particularly around eaves, vents, and chimneys. These entry points can be inviting to bats seeking shelter.
What to Do if You Suspect Bats
If you suspect bats have moved into your property, it’s crucial to address the situation promptly. Bats are protected by federal and state regulations, making it illegal to use pesticides or harm them. Instead, rely on professional services like Rusty’s Animal Control (RAC) to handle the issue humanely and legally.
RAC’s Bat Removal & Exclusion Services
RAC offers comprehensive bat exclusion services to safely evict bats and prevent their return. Our process includes:
- Identifying Entry Points: we locate all entry and exit points used by bats
- One-Way Doors: installing bat cones or one-way doors allows bats to leave but not re-enter
- Sealing the Structure: we seal the remaining entry points with durable materials to prevent future infestations
- Cleanup and Remediation: after exclusion, we clean and sanitize affected areas, repairing any damage caused by bats
With our services, you can rest easy knowing your property is protected. RAC is officially approved by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, ensuring compliance with all regulations.
Contact Us Today
Rusty’s Animal Control specializes in wildlife control and removal services for commercial, industrial, and residential properties. Whether you’re dealing with bats, mice, rats, squirrels, or raccoons, our team is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our bat exclusion services and get a quote.