THE SIGNS OF BATS AND HOW TO PREVENT THEM

As we approach fall, it becomes the time of the year that many bats and other wild animals will begin to seek shelter for the fall and colder months. The shelter these wild animals are seeking are often people’s homes, like yours. Although bats play an important role in our ecosystem and provide the benefit of feeding on insects around your home, they also pose a threat and can carry diseases to humans and other animals. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), several highly fatal diseases have been linked to bats, including rabies. Check for bats by following the following signs and prevention tips to keep them out of your home.

Check for these signs of bats:

• Smelling ammonia — bat droppings contain this pungent chemical
• Hearing squeaks and buzz noises — these are the sounds of bats communicating with each other
• Seeing brown or black stains on the siding or overhang — these marks indicate where bats may be entering your house

Use these tips to prevent bats entry to your home:

1. Use vent screens — screens behind every exterior vent is helpful, especially behind the gable vent
2. Seal holes, cracks, and gaps — check for these on the exterior of the home near the attic and soffits
3. Install a chimney cap — bats will enter chimneys and other furnace vents that are not protected
4. Check door and window screens — install screens if you do not have them and make sure they are free from rips and tears

If you notice signs of bats near or inside of your home, take precaution and call a professional immediately. It may be important to capture the bat for rabies testing, especially if a potential bite or exposure has occurred. As always, call 877-DEAD-BUG (377-332-3284) or visit bdpest.com to have Black Diamond handle all of your wildlife control needs!

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