Bats in Your Home? Here's What to Do!

As bat sightings soar during this time of year, concern is growing over how to safely handle these creatures. If you find a bat flapping about in your home, don’t panic! Environment expert Swerdfeger offers straightforward tips for managing the situation.

Easy Steps for a Solo Bat

If a single bat has ventured into your living space, the solution is simpler than you might think. Close all windows and doors, leaving just one exit open, such as a window. Turn off lights and ceiling fans to create a serene environment, and let the bat find its way out on its own.

Caught in a Tight Spot? Here's How to Help!

Should the bat be stuck in an area with limited flight space, you can shepherd it towards freedom. Use a box when it lands. Swerdfeger suggests wearing thick gloves for protection. Carefully place the box over the bat, using a piece of cardboard to cover the opening. Just like capturing a spider, this method encourages a gentle release.

The Best Time to Let Bats Fly Free

Twilight is the optimal moment for bat releases—nature's cue for these nocturnal creatures to explore!

Battling Bat Colonies: Seek Professional Help!

If you're confronting a colony in a barn or building, Swerdfeger advises tackling the issue between May and September. This is when it’s most effective to engage a licensed pest control operator who specializes in humanely evicting bats.

The Magic of Bat Exclusion Devices

These experts can install exclusion devices, or bat cones, allowing bats to exit without re-entering. Once the bats are safely out, they can then seal off entry points to prevent future visits.

Protecting Our Flying Friends

It's essential to note that bats are a protected species in many areas, meaning removal isn’t as simple as catching and releasing. To disturb their home or to harm them requires special licensing due to the protection laws surrounding endangered species like the little brown myotis and the northern myotis.

A Gentle Reminder