All About Bats

Some bat species are federally protected by the Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973 and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act of 1956. In addition, in most U.S states, there are state laws against killing, hurting, or even moving bats.

Bats are important in our natural world for many reasons. They’re vital pollinators, pest controllers, and seed distributors – benefitting all of us. They feed on insects that visit flowers and also feed on various types of fruit that helps disperse seeds. Since many bats do feed on insects, they can help keep pest insect populations down. One bat can catch up to 600 mosquitoes in an hour.

Bat-proofing a structure is the best way to prevent an infestation and the best time to bat-proof is after bats have left for their hibernation periods in the autumn. Exclusion is the only method to keep bats out long term. You should contact a licensed pest professional if an active bat infestation is suspected, as the problem often cannot be controlled with do-it-yourself measures.

The main issue bats bring with them is the threat of rabies. The good news is bats will only defend themselves – in lieu of actively attacking a human. In addition to the threat of rabies, the fungi that harbor in bat droppings can cause a lung disease known as histoplasmosis. Aside from affecting human health, bat droppings can also damage the home.

Bats cannot run so it would be almost impossible for them to take off from the ground. A major advantage to hanging upside down is that bats do not need to generate lift to begin flight. They just drop out of their bed, open their wings and off they go.

Contrary to popular belief, bats are not blind. Bats have small eyes with very sensitive vision, which helps them see in conditions we might consider pitch black. They don’t have the sharp and colorful vision humans have, but they don’t need it.

Bats frequently find their way into attics by squeezing past damaged or rotting shingles. Even the most minor roof damage could create an opening big enough for a bat. Along with their ability to squeeze through tiny openings, bats can also push through rotting wood to make their own entry points. And an open window only needs to be open a little for them to squeeze through!