How To Get Bats Out Of Attic

Hearing strange scratching noises coming from your attic? You might have unwanted houseguests – bats! While bats play a vital role in our ecosystem by controlling insect populations, they don't belong in your home. A bat infestation can lead to unpleasant odors from their droppings (guano), potential structural damage, and even the risk of disease transmission. Getting rid of them safely and effectively is crucial for protecting your home and your health.

Evicting bats isn't as simple as shooing them away. Many bat species are protected, and improper removal methods can harm the bats or create bigger problems for you, like trapping them inside or scattering the colony throughout your home. Understanding the right techniques and timing is essential to ensure a humane and successful bat removal process. This guide will walk you through the steps you need to take to safely and legally reclaim your attic from these nocturnal visitors.

What are the signs of a bat infestation, and what are the safest ways to get rid of them?

What's the best time of year to get bats out of my attic?

The absolute best time to evict bats from your attic is generally during the late summer or early spring, specifically from mid-August to mid-October, or mid-March to mid-May. These periods fall outside of the bat maternity season when mother bats are raising their young, which is a critical consideration for humane bat removal.

The primary reason timing is so crucial is to avoid separating mothers from their dependent pups. Bat maternity season typically runs from May through August in many parts of North America. During this time, mother bats congregate in roosts (like your attic) to give birth and raise their young. Baby bats are entirely reliant on their mothers for survival during this period. Evicting the colony during maternity season will likely result in the death of the pups, as they are unable to fly or care for themselves outside the roost. This is not only inhumane but also can create further problems, such as foul odors from decomposing bat pups. Therefore, waiting until after the maternity season ensures that young bats are old enough to fly and leave the roost on their own, along with their mothers. Late summer/early fall offers ideal conditions because the young are weaned and capable of foraging independently before winter arrives. Similarly, early spring offers a window before the next maternity season begins, ensuring that no dependent pups are present. Always consult with your local wildlife authorities or a qualified bat removal specialist to determine the specific maternity season dates for your region, as these can vary slightly based on geographic location and bat species. Professional removal services are highly recommended for ethical and effective bat exclusion.

How do I find all the bat entry points in my attic?

Finding all bat entry points in your attic requires a meticulous inspection both inside and outside your home, focusing on areas where bats can squeeze through even the smallest gaps. Look for telltale signs like bat droppings, staining from body oils, and listen for scratching or squeaking sounds at dusk and dawn. Prioritize areas where different building materials meet, as these are common weak points.

Carefully examine the exterior of your house, starting at the roofline and working your way down. Bats can enter through openings as small as 3/8 inch, so pay close attention to:

Inside the attic, use a bright flashlight to illuminate potential entry points. Look for light shining through from outside, which indicates a gap. Pay particular attention to areas near the roofline, around vents, and where walls meet the ceiling. Bat droppings, which resemble mouse droppings but crumble more easily, are a strong indicator of bat activity and proximity to an entry point. Sometimes, staining, called "bat grease", on surfaces from the oil in the bat's fur can also indicate an entry point, especially around small cracks or crevices.

Is it safe to remove bats myself, or should I call a professional?

It's generally recommended to call a professional for bat removal. While attempting DIY bat removal might seem cost-effective, it poses significant risks to both your health and the well-being of the bats. Professionals have the expertise, training, and equipment to safely and humanely remove bats while adhering to local regulations.

There are several compelling reasons to avoid DIY bat removal. First and foremost is the risk of disease transmission. Bats can carry rabies, histoplasmosis (from their droppings), and other pathogens that can be harmful or even fatal to humans. Handling bats, even if you don't think you've been bitten, increases your risk of exposure. Second, improper removal techniques can harm or kill the bats, which are often protected species. Many states have laws in place to protect bat populations, and violating these laws can result in fines. Third, bats are adept at finding their way back into a structure. A professional will not only remove the existing bats but also identify and seal all entry points to prevent future infestations. A botched DIY job often results in the bats simply relocating within your attic or returning shortly after you think you've evicted them.

Furthermore, professional bat removal services utilize specialized techniques like "one-way doors" which allow bats to exit the attic but prevent them from re-entering. This ensures humane and effective removal without causing harm to the bats. They also understand bat behavior and roosting patterns, allowing them to locate all bats, including young ones that may be hidden. Finally, professionals can safely and thoroughly clean and disinfect the attic space after the bats have been removed, eliminating the health hazards associated with bat guano. This is a critical step often overlooked by homeowners attempting DIY removal.

What kind of exclusion device works best for bat removal?

The most effective exclusion device for bat removal is a one-way exclusion tube, often made of plastic or netting, that allows bats to exit the attic but prevents them from re-entering.

One-way exclusion tubes work by creating a funnel-like opening over the bats' primary exit points. These tubes are typically made of lightweight plastic or netting, ranging in diameter from 2 to 4 inches, ensuring bats can easily squeeze through when leaving to forage. The key is that the outer end of the tube constricts or collapses, preventing the bats from pushing their way back in due to the material's flexibility or the narrow opening. Professionals typically install these tubes over all identified entry/exit points after a thorough inspection of the attic and roofline. The success of one-way exclusion devices hinges on proper installation and timing. All secondary entry points must be sealed *before* installing the exclusion devices to ensure bats don't simply find another way back in. Sealing materials can include caulk, expanding foam, netting, or metal flashing, depending on the size and nature of the opening. Furthermore, exclusion should never be performed during the bat birthing season (typically late spring and summer) to avoid trapping flightless young inside, which will lead to their death and potential odor or insect infestations. Instead, focus on exclusion during the late summer/early fall or early spring months when bats are mobile but not raising their young.

How can I clean up bat droppings and prevent diseases?

Cleaning up bat droppings (guano) is crucial for preventing diseases like histoplasmosis. The process involves wearing proper protective gear, thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the affected areas, and safely disposing of the waste. Preventing future accumulations requires addressing the bat infestation problem and sealing entry points.

Bat guano can harbor the fungus *Histoplasma capsulatum*, which causes histoplasmosis, a respiratory disease. It's imperative to minimize exposure during cleanup. Before you begin, gather the necessary protective gear: a respirator mask (N95 or higher rating), disposable coveralls, gloves (nitrile or rubber), and eye protection. Moisten the droppings with a disinfectant solution (a bleach and water solution – 1 part bleach to 10 parts water is common) to prevent spores from becoming airborne during cleaning. Avoid sweeping or vacuuming dry droppings, as this will aerosolize the fungal spores. Once the area is dampened, carefully scoop up the droppings using a shovel or disposable container and seal them in heavy-duty plastic bags. Dispose of the bags according to local regulations for hazardous waste or general trash (check your local guidelines). After removing the bulk of the droppings, thoroughly scrub the affected areas with the disinfectant solution and allow it to air dry completely. If there are contaminated items that cannot be cleaned, such as insulation, it is often best to remove and dispose of them professionally. Finally, it is also important to consider hiring a professional wildlife removal service to humanely remove the bats and seal off any entry points to prevent future infestations.

What are the legal regulations regarding bat removal in my area?

Bat removal is heavily regulated at the federal, state, and sometimes even local levels to protect bat populations, which are crucial for insect control and overall ecosystem health. Generally, it's illegal to kill or harm bats, and regulations often dictate specific exclusion methods and timing to avoid harming bats, particularly during breeding seasons (typically spring and summer) when dependent young are present. These regulations necessitate live exclusion methods and may require permits depending on the bat species and your location.

Because bats are protected under federal laws like the Endangered Species Act (if a listed species is present) and are often subject to state and local conservation regulations, you need to consult your local wildlife agency (e.g., Department of Natural Resources, Fish and Wildlife Service) before attempting any bat removal. Regulations often specify the "bat exclusion" method as the only legal way to remove bats. This involves installing one-way doors or netting at entry points, allowing bats to exit but preventing them from re-entering. The timing of exclusion is crucial to avoid trapping baby bats inside, which would lead to their starvation and potentially violate animal cruelty laws. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in substantial fines and legal penalties. Furthermore, some states may have specific certifications or licensing requirements for individuals or companies performing bat exclusion services. Engaging a qualified and licensed wildlife removal professional familiar with local regulations is highly recommended to ensure compliance and humane treatment of the bats. They will be aware of current restrictions, appropriate exclusion techniques, and how to handle any potential presence of protected species.

How can I prevent bats from returning to my attic in the future?

The most effective way to prevent bats from returning to your attic is to thoroughly seal all potential entry points after they have been safely and humanely excluded. This involves a comprehensive inspection, professional-grade sealing materials, and ongoing maintenance to ensure no new openings develop.

To ensure bats don't reclaim your attic, start with a detailed inspection of your home's exterior. Bats can squeeze through surprisingly small spaces, sometimes as tiny as 3/8 of an inch. Focus on areas where different materials meet, such as where the roof meets the siding, around chimneys, vents, and utility pipes. Pay close attention to any cracks, gaps, or holes, no matter how small they may seem. Using caulk, expanding foam, steel wool, or metal flashing, seal every potential entry point you identify. Be sure to use quality materials that can withstand weather and deter chewing. Long-term prevention requires vigilance. Routinely inspect your home's exterior, at least twice a year (spring and fall), for any signs of new damage or openings. Address any issues promptly. Trimming trees and vegetation away from your roof can also help, as bats may use these as access routes to your attic. Finally, consider installing bat houses on your property, away from your home. This can provide an alternative roosting site for bats and encourage them to stay away from your attic.

Dealing with bats in the attic can feel overwhelming, but hopefully this guide has given you a good starting point! Remember to be patient, thorough, and always prioritize the safety of both yourself and the bats. Thanks for reading, and good luck reclaiming your attic! Feel free to check back in anytime for more helpful home tips and tricks.