Bats are fascinating mammals that are often misunderstood, primarily because of their portrayal in pop culture (bats = vampires that suck your blood!) They are small to medium in size with elongated wings, with a thin membrane of skin, called the patagium, that stretches between their fingers and limbs. This is what allows them to fly. Bats can look quite different depending on the species, but most commonly are identified by their leathery wings, large pointed ears, and long snouts.
In Ontario, the most common bat species include the little brown bat and the big brown bat. They can be found in both rural and urban areas throughout the province, as they have been able to thrive in various types of habitat.
In non-residential areas, bats will often be found living in caves, tree hollows, and rock crevices. Within urban cities, they may seek shelter in buildings, attics, or barns. When looking for a suitable spot to birth and raise their young, species such as the little brown bat will often choose warm, dark attics that offer seclusion and protection. When this happens, professional wildlife work to remove bats from these spaces can only be done during certain times of the year!
One significant concern when it comes to bats living in close quarters to humans is the potential transmission of diseases, such as rabies. Although the incidence of rabies in bats is relatively low, it is essential to avoid direct contact with bats and seek immediate medical attention if a bite or scratch occurs. Additionally, bat droppings (a.k.a guano) can accumulate in roosting areas and may carry histoplasmosis – a fungal infection that can be harmful when inhaled. It is important to take precautions and wear protective gear if ever cleaning bat-infested areas.
Bat removal is a job that requires specific techniques and tools. Attempting to remove bats yourself can be dangerous. It puts you at risk of being bitten or exposed to potentially harmful bat guano. Our professionals take all necessary precautions to ensure that the risks associated with bat removal are removed. If you hire our team, you can rest assured knowing that your property is in safe hands. We use effective and reliable techniques to seal all entry points and make sure that bats are removed from your home completely. .
Bats are always seeking out secure and sheltered roosting sites that provide protection from predators and harsh weather conditions. Areas around your property, such as your attic, a barn, or similar structures, may simulate their natural roosting areas. If these spaces have easy access inside (bats don’t need much space), bats may choose to take over. With bats being primarily insectivorous, they are also attracted to areas with an abundant insect population. Residential properties with gardens, water supply, or proximity to open spaces like parks and fields can provide bats with a steady source of food. Lights that attract insects, such as outdoor lighting or street lights, can also draw bats to certain residential homes.
Many people are scared of bats and will do whatever it takes to deter them from ever seeing their property as a viable place to live. To try and prevent a bat infestation before it happens, it is important to consider potential areas where they could colonize, remove attractants, and invest into other proactive measures such as bat houses and lighting adjustments.
→ Entry Points: Conduct a thorough inspection of your property, especially the attic, for any potential entries that bats could use to gain access inside. Seal up all gaps, cracks, and openings larger than a quarter-inch using materials such as caulk, weatherstripping, or hardware cloth. Please note that this can only be done if you do not have an existing bat issue – if bats are already getting inside, a wildlife removal professional is required to make sure the bats can safely exit before closing off their entries (and only at certain times of year).
→ Attractants: Reduce potential food sources that attract insects and, consequently, bats! Maintain proper waste management by securing garbage cans and keeping areas clean and free of food debris. Address any sources of standing water, as they can attract insects and mosquitoes that bats feed on. Having regular pest control treatments done to the exterior of your home may also be helpful.
→ Bat Houses: Provide alternative roosting options for bats by installing bat houses in nearby trees or elsewhere on your property. Bat houses are especially designed structures that mimic natural roosting sites, providing bats with a suitable and safe place to roost. Properly placed bat houses can help attract bats away from your roof or attic, and encourage them to establish their colony in a more desirable location.
→ Lighting: Consider adjusting outdoor lighting to minimize its impact on attracting insects. Use low-intensity yellow or red LED bulbs, as these are less attractive to pests.
Bats are a protected species in Ontario and their removal from a property has to be done in a very specific way. If bats are actively roosting in a space such as your attic, it is always advised to leave their removal to a professional wildlife technician who has experience with bats and the laws surrounding them. Bats are a vital part of the ecosystem and are facing declining populations. They play crucial roles in pollination and insect control – protecting bats helps to preserve biodiversity and supports the overall health of Ontario’s natural environment. However, it’s important to know that while bats may choose residential properties for their roosts, their presence can lead to concerns such as noise, odours, or health risks. If bats become a nuisance or pose health concerns, Burlington Wildlife can help.
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