Bat Information

In the United States there are more than 40 bat species, and nearly 1,000 different species live around the world. Often called flying rats, bats have gotten a bad reputation. While they do carry diseases, their existence is beneficial to humans and the environment in a way rats are not. Most bat species are insectivores and only eat mosquitoes, beetles, and moths. Since these insects are generally also considered pests, controlled populations of bats around homes can be considered favorable.

Bats have furry bodies that can be tan, red, brown, or grey. They have poor eyesight, which is compensated for with large ears designed for echolocation. They are the only flying mammals. Small bats grow up to 3.5 inches in length and can have a wingspan of about 8 inches. Larger species can grow up to 8 inches in length and have a wingspan up to 23 inches. Bats inhabit woodlands, suburbs, and urban areas. Bats prefer warm temperatures, most commonly seen in the twilight hours of the summer, they survive colder climates by hibernating in the winter months. Bats can be found in barns, attics, caves, tree cavities, and the undersides of bridges to roost or hibernate.

While bats are normally beneficial creatures, they can pose certain health concerns. Diseases like rabies and histoplasmosis are often associated with bats. However, because of their benefits, homeowners sometimes construct bat houses close to their gardens or around their homes in order to keep bats from roosting where they're unwanted. However, they won't always take to these homes. The best way to keep bats out of your home is to seal cracks and illuminate attic spaces and eves at night.

To get rid of a problematic bat presence around your home, head to our Wildlife Control Businesses page. Your local animal control specialist will come look over your residence and fromulate a plan based on your needs.