Preparing for Safe Bat Eviction
Ensuring the safe removal of a bat from your house involves understanding their behavior, using the right equipment, and securing the area to minimize stress for both the bat and the occupants.
Understand Bat Behavior
Bats utilize echolocation to navigate in the dark, which means they can avoid obstacles while flying.
However, they may become disoriented by indoor lights and sudden movements.
Recognizing that most bat species prefer to exit on their own can guide your strategy for safe eviction.
Safety Measures and Equipment
Proper protective gear is essential to prevent bites and potential rabies exposure.
Thick work gloves provide a protective barrier while handling the bat.
It is advisable for individuals engaging in bat eviction to wear long-sleeved shirts and pants.
People must refrain from using bare hands due to the risk of bites.
Children and pets should be kept away from the area to prevent distress and injury to either party.
Isolate the Bat and Secure the Area
The first step in removing a bat from your house is to confine it to a single room if possible.
All interior doors should be closed, while external windows and doors are opened to encourage the bat to leave.
Animal control or wildlife specialists can assist if the bat does not exit on their own.
Creating a calm environment reduces the stress on the bat and increases the chances of a successful and safe removal.
Removing the Bat and Preventing Re-entry
When a bat enters your home, it is important to safely remove the bat and implement measures to prevent it from returning.
Proper eviction and exclusion are key to coexisting with these protected species.
Capturing and Releasing the Bat
To safely capture a bat in your home, wait until the bat lands, approach it slowly, and then cover it with a cardboard box or a towel.
Once covered, slide a piece of cardboard under the box to gently trap the bat inside.
Release the bat outside by placing the box near an open window and allowing it to fly out during nighttime.
Identifying and Sealing Entry Points
Examine your house for small gaps or holes that could serve as a point of entry.
Even dime-sized gaps can allow bats access to your living spaces.
Use materials like caulking to seal smaller gaps and heavier materials, like metal mesh, for larger ones.
Pay particular attention to the attic, as it serves as a common roost for bats.
Creating Alternative Habitats
To discourage bats from roosting in your house, provide alternative habitats like a bat box.
A bat box mimics their natural roosting environment and can be placed in trees or on poles at a distance away from your house.
When to Contact Professionals
If bats are hibernating in your home or if it’s during maternity season, it’s imperative to contact a state wildlife agency or a professional wildlife rehabilitator.
During these times, bats are protected by law, and eviction can only be done by licensed professionals.
Additionally, if you’re uncertain about handling the situation, consult with pest control experts trained in bat removal and prevention methods.