Bat in the Attic? Here’s What to Do Immediately

Richard Neumayer • November 14, 2024

When you hear strange rustling above your ceiling at night, it’s understandable to feel both worried and uncertain about what to do. Bat removal isn’t as simple as getting rid of other pests due to health risks, legal protections for bats, and their importance to our ecosystem.

But don’t worry!

We’re here to guide you through every step. In this post, you’ll learn how to manage this wildlife situation safely, who to call, and what to avoid. With the right approach, you can address your bat issue effectively.

Why Are Bats in Your Attic?

Bats, including the Big Brown Bat (Eptesicus fuscus), find attics attractive because they offer a quiet, undisturbed space away from predators and weather, making it an ideal habitat. The warmth inside also helps them during cooler months, their hibernation period. But while bats don’t mean harm, having them in your attic can be problematic, especially if they’ve started to nest there.

Long-Term Risks of Bats in the Attic

Health Risks: Bats can carry diseases like rabies and histoplasmosis, a fungal infection from bat droppings or guano. Additionally, they can host ticks, which could lead to various illnesses.
Structural Damage: Over time, droppings can corrode wood and drywall, weakening your home’s structure.
Odor Issues: Bat droppings have a strong, unpleasant odor that worsens with time and may attract other pests. Additionally, urine from bats can create persistent smells that are difficult to eliminate.

Step One: Stay Calm and Avoid Contact

The first rule of encountering bats in your home is to avoid any direct contact. Bats rarely pose immediate harm, but touching them can put you at risk. Here’s what to do immediately:

Don’t Try to Catch or Touch the Bats: Even if they seem harmless, bats may carry diseases. Leave them alone and keep your distance.
Keep Pets and Kids Away: Animals and children may try to approach bats out of curiosity, so restrict access to the attic.
Avoid Sealing Exits Right Away: Blocking off exits before all bats are out could trap them inside, which could worsen the problem.

What Not to Do

Mistakes when dealing with bats can complicate removal and cause additional stress. Here are some key things to avoid:

Don’t Use Poisons or Traps: Not only is it inhumane, but it’s also illegal in Georgia to harm bats.
Don’t Panic and Open All Doors or Windows: This could lead bats to scatter throughout the house, including the basement.
Avoid DIY Solutions: Bat removal requires specific skills and equipment. Attempting it yourself can be ineffective and risky.

Step Two: Identify Entry Points

To successfully remove bats, it’s crucial to find out how they’re entering. This step is essential in ensuring they don’t return after removal. Common bat entry points include:

Gaps in Roof Shingles: Bats can squeeze into surprisingly small spaces.
Unsealed Vents: Check attic vents, as they often provide easy access.
Cracks Near the Chimney: Many homeowners overlook chimney cracks, which can be an open invitation to bats.

How to Safely Check for Entry Points

Conduct a visual inspection during the day when bats are least active. Look for small openings, droppings near walls, or greasy marks around entry points.

Step Three: Contact a Bat Removal Specialist

Removing bats isn’t like handling rodents or insects. Bat removal specialists use methods that protect both you and the bats, respecting their role in the ecosystem. Here’s what to expect when you call a professional:

Inspection: Specialists will examine your attic, identifying how many bats are present and pinpointing entry points.
Exclusion Methods: Experts use humane one-way exit devices that allow bats to leave but not re-enter. This is an essential step, as it clears the attic without trapping any bats inside.
Cleaning and Sanitizing: Bat droppings or guano must be removed carefully to prevent health hazards. Professionals use specialized cleaning products to sanitize the area.

Tip: Choose a licensed, insured bat removal professional with experience in metro Atlanta or nearby areas to ensure the process is smooth and legal.

Step Four: Bat-Proof Your Home

Bat-proofing prevents future infestations. After the bats are out, professionals can help you seal off any entry points. Here’s a breakdown of what this involves:

Sealing Small Gaps and Cracks: Professionals use bat-safe sealants for small gaps to prevent bats from squeezing in.
Installing Chimney Caps and Vent Covers: These devices protect open vents while allowing airflow, preventing bats from entering.
Adding Screening to Roof Vents: Screened roof vents add an extra layer of protection without affecting ventilation.

Long-Term Bat Prevention Tips

While professional bat-proofing is key, there are some things you can do to discourage bats from returning:

Keep Exterior Lights Off at Night: Insects attracted to lights can draw bats closer to your home.
Trim Trees Near the Roof: Bats may use branches close to your roof as an easy pathway to your attic.

When to Remove Bats

Different bat species have varying migration and reproduction patterns. Many areas in the United States restrict bat removal during maternity seasons, which usually last from late spring to early summer. If young bats are present, they can’t fly out on their own, which is why professional guidance is so important.

FAQs About Bat in the Attic

What Are the Health Risks of Bat Droppings?

Bat droppings can carry the fungus Histoplasma, which may cause respiratory issues. Inhaling spores from dried droppings can lead to histoplasmosis, a potentially serious respiratory infection.

Is Bat Removal Expensive?

Costs vary based on factors like the extent of the infestation and the methods used for exclusion and bat-proofing. For the safest and most efficient approach, hiring a Cumming bat removal professional is worth the investment.

Why Can’t I Just Seal the Bats Inside?

Sealing bats inside not only harms them but could also lead to decomposition issues if bats perish in your attic. Trapping bats inside creates health hazards and worsens the situation.

Conclusion

Discovering bats in your attic can be alarming, but taking the right steps will lead to a quick, effective resolution.

By understanding bat behavior, avoiding direct contact, and calling a professional, you’ll handle the situation safely. Once the bats are gone, bat-proofing ensures your attic stays bat-free. And if the process feels overwhelming, Catch A Critter is here to help.

We provide reliable, humane bat removal services that prioritize both your safety and the well-being of these mammals.

Reach out to us today and reclaim your attic with peace of mind.

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Squirrel Mating Season is Here – What It Means for Your Home

By Richard Neumayer • March 21, 2025

Squirrel mating season peaks in March, increasing the risk of home infestations. Learn how to protect your attic from nesting squirrels and when to seek squirrel removal. Contact us today!

Humane Methods to Permanently Remove Squirrels from Attics

By Richard Neumayer • February 20, 2025

Discover humane methods to remove squirrels from attics permanently. Learn effective, safe strategies to protect your home. Call today for expert help!

A squirrel is looking out of a wooden box in the snow.

Winter Squirrel Problems? Protect Your Home This January

By Richard Neumayer • January 29, 2025

Winter months bring more than just chilly weather. They can also bring squirrels seeking warmth into your home. If you're tired of dealing with noisy critters in your attic or walls, you're not alone. Many homeowners face this challenge in January, but don't worry, there are humane ways to handle squirrel removal . This post covers everything you need to know about keeping your home safe and squirrel-free this winter. Why Do Squirrels Invade Homes in Winter? When the temperature drops, squirrels search for cozy spaces to nest - spaces such as attics, crawl spaces, and wall cavities make perfect shelters. They’re looking for: Warmth: Squirrels can’t tolerate freezing temperatures and need a place to stay warm. Food Storage: They often bring nuts and seeds into their nesting areas. Safety: Indoor spaces protect them from predators. Unfortunately, their presence can lead to damage like chewed wires, insulation destruction, and unpleasant odors. Signs You Have a Squirrel Problem If squirrels have moved in, you’ll likely notice these signs: Scratching Sounds: Especially in the early morning or late evening. Droppings: Found near nesting or feeding spots. Chewed Entry Points: Damaged vents, soffits, or roof edges. Nesting Materials: Shredded insulation, leaves, or fabric. How to Protect Your Home from Squirrels This January Follow these tips to protect your home: 1. Seal Entry Points Inspect your home for openings where squirrels can sneak in. Focus on: Gaps in roofing or siding. Open chimneys (install caps for extra protection). Damaged vents or screens. A small gap the size of a quarter is enough for a squirrel to squeeze through. Use durable materials like wire mesh or metal flashing to cover these areas. 2. Keep Your Yard Tidy Squirrels are drawn to cluttered yards that provide food and shelter. To make your yard less appealing: Trim tree branches away from your roof. Rake fallen nuts and fruits. Store firewood at least 20 feet from your house. This not only discourages squirrels but also other critters looking for a home. 3. Remove Food Sources Squirrels often invade homes in search of food. Take these precautions: Use sealed containers for pet food and birdseed. Avoid leaving food scraps outdoors. Keep garbage bins tightly closed. These simple steps can make your home far less attractive to wildlife. 4. Install Deterrents There are humane ways to discourage squirrels from settling near your home: Ultrasonic Devices: These emit sounds that are unpleasant to squirrels but safe for humans and pets. Natural Repellents: Use scents like peppermint oil near entry points. Motion-Activated Sprinklers: These can scare squirrels away from your yard. Why Humane Squirrel Removal Matters It’s tempting to resort to harmful methods, but they’re not necessary. Humane squirrel removal in Cumming , focuses on relocating squirrels without causing harm and preventing their return through exclusion techniques. This approach respects wildlife while protecting your property. According to the Humane Society, methods like one-way doors allow squirrels to exit safely but block re-entry. This minimizes stress on the animal and avoids unnecessary harm. When to Call for Professional Help Sometimes, DIY methods aren’t enough. If squirrels persist despite your efforts, it’s time to consider professional squirrel removal . A licensed wildlife removal service can: Safely trap and relocate squirrels. Repair damage and seal entry points. Provide advice on long-term prevention. Catch A Critter , with its eco-conscious and humane practices, is a trusted option for homeowners dealing with squirrel issues. FAQs About Squirrel Removal Can I Remove Squirrels Myself? You can try, but it’s tricky and may not be legal in some areas. Always check local regulations and prioritize humane methods. Do Squirrels Cause Fire Hazards? Yes. Squirrels often chew on electrical wiring, which increases the risk of fires. This is one of the top reasons to address the issue quickly. How Long Does Squirrel Removal Take? It depends on the size of the infestation. Professionals often resolve the issue within a week. Why Choose Catch A Critter for Squirrel Removal At Catch A Critter , we understand how frustrating and overwhelming squirrel problems can be. That’s why we prioritize humane removal techniques that are effective and eco-friendly. Our team is passionate about protecting your home and wildlife, giving you peace of mind without harming the environment. Conclusion Winter squirrel problems don’t have to ruin the start of your year. From sealing entry points to calling a trusted wildlife removal service like Catch A Critter , there are many ways to protect your home. Squirrels can cause significant damage, but with the right steps, you can keep your property safe and cozy this winter. If you’re ready to take action, contact Catch A Critter today for compassionate, effective squirrel removal solutions.