Bats are an integral part of our ecosystem, but when they take up residence in your attic, they can pose significant health risks and property damage. This article offers a comprehensive guide on how to get rid of bats in the attic safely and humanely.
Understand the Species of Bats
Houston, Texas, is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to a wide range of wildlife species. Bats are one such group of creatures that contribute significantly to this diversity. Different species have different behaviors and preferences, which will affect your bat removal strategy. The city’s warm climate and abundant food sources provide an ideal habitat for these nocturnal mammals. A pest management professional can help identify the species and provide tailored advice.
Mexican Free-tailed Bat
The most common bat species in Houston is the Mexican free-tailed bat. These bats are often seen residing under highway bridges, like the population under the Watonga crossover bridge north of the city. They are also known to migrate to Houston from Mexico and other areas.
Big Brown Bat and Evening Bat
The big brown bat and the evening bat are two other bat species in Greater Houston. Both of these species are insect-eaters, helping control the local insect population.
Long-legged Myotis and Mexican Long-nosed Bat
Other species identified in Texas include the long-legged myotis and the Mexican long-nosed bat. While these species might not be as commonly seen in urban areas, they contribute to the overall bat diversity in the state.
Unidentified Bat Species
Several other bat species exist in Houston, contributing to its rich biodiversity. Houston is home to 11 different species of bats. These bats fall under three different roosting styles: tree branch roosting, cavity roosting, and cave roosting, each offering unique contributions to the local ecosystem.
Identify Entry Points
Bats are entering your home through certain entry points. These could be cracks, crevices, or holes in your roof or walls. Bats can squeeze through spaces as small as a half-inch, so even minor gaps allow a colony of bats to enter and exit your home.
Bat Exclusion: Allowing Bats to Exit
Once you’ve identified where the bats are entering, the next step is bat exclusion. This process involves installing one-way devices, like bat cones or tubes, at the entry points. These devices allow the bats to exit the attic but prevent them from re-entering.
It’s important to note that bat exclusion should only be done during specific times of the year. During maternity season, baby bats are unable to fly and may become trapped and die if their mothers are excluded from the attic.
Seal the Exit Points
After all the bats have left the attic, you can seal the exit points to prevent them from returning. This process should be done meticulously to ensure no potential entry points are missed. Again, a wildlife control professional can help with this task to ensure it’s done correctly.
Use Bat Houses
Bats in the attic are often looking for a safe place to roost. Installing bat houses near your home can provide an alternative roosting spot for the bats. This can help discourage them from returning to your attic.
Use Protective Gear
If you need to enter the attic while there are still bats present, it’s crucial to wear protective gear. Bats can carry diseases like rabies and histoplasmosis, so wearing gloves, a respirator mask, and protective clothing can help protect you from potential health risks.
Do Not Poison Bats
It’s important to note that it’s illegal and inhumane to poison bats. Not only does this pose significant risks to the bats themselves, but it can also result in dead bats in your attic, which can lead to foul odors and attract other pests.
Consider Bright Lights
Bats prefer dark, quiet spaces. Introducing bright lights into the attic can make the space less appealing to bats. However, this method should be used with caution as it can also disturb other wildlife or cause fire hazards.
Hire a Pest Control Professional
While there are many DIY methods for bat removal, dealing with a colony of bats can be challenging and potentially dangerous. A pest control professional has the tools and expertise to remove bats from your home safely and humanely.
In conclusion, getting rid of bats in the attic involves identifying entry points, allowing bats to exit, sealing off exit points, and providing alternative roosting spots. Always prioritize the safety and well-being of yourself and the bats throughout this process. If you’re unsure about any aspect of bat removal, don’t hesitate to contact a professional wildlife control service like Woodlands Wildlife Elimination. We have years of experience in effectively and humanely resolving bat problems, ensuring you can enjoy a bat-free home without harming these essential creatures.