Bats play an important role in the ecosystem. They help control insects and pollinate plants. But when they take up residence in your attic, chimney, or walls, it quickly becomes a problem you can’t ignore.
A bat infestation in your home isn’t just unsettling; it can pose health risks and cause damage if left unchecked. If you’re hearing scratching in the attic or spotting droppings near entry points, it might be time to investigate.
Here’s how to tell if you have bats, what to do about them, and how to prevent them from returning.
Why Bats Enter Homes in the First Place
Bats are always looking for safe, dark, and quiet places to roost, especially during colder months or breeding season. Unfortunately, your home offers plenty of appealing hiding spots.
Common bat entry points include:
- Attic vents and soffits
- Gaps under roof shingles
- Chimneys without screens
- Cracks around windows or fascia boards
Once inside, bats can live in tight spaces between walls, in attics, or behind insulation—anywhere undisturbed and warm.
Signs You Might Have a Bat Problem
Not sure if bats have moved in? Here are some common signs:
- Chirping or scratching sounds in the attic or walls, especially at dusk or dawn
- Droppings (guano) around the roofline, vents, or attic floor
- Dark stains or streaks near entry points—caused by oils from their fur
- A strong ammonia-like smell, which may indicate accumulated guano and urine
- Sightings of bats flying near your home, especially around sunset
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it’s important to act quickly—before a small bat problem turns into a full colony.
Why You Should Never Remove Bats Yourself
Trying to trap or kill bats on your own is dangerous—and often illegal. Bats are protected in many states, especially during certain months when they may be raising pups.
More importantly, bats can carry serious health risks, including:
- Rabies (though rare, bites or scratches should always be taken seriously)
- Histoplasmosis, a respiratory illness caused by spores in guano
Never try to handle bats directly. Even if they seem calm or injured, always call a professional for help.
Safe and Legal Bat Removal
At Genuine Pest Control, we use humane, legal, and effective bat exclusion methods to remove bats without harming them or putting your household at risk.
Here’s how the safe removal process works:
1. Inspection
We assess the situation, identify entry points, and look for signs of an active roost.
2. Exclusion Devices
Instead of trapping bats, we install one-way exclusion devices that allow them to leave—but not re-enter.
3. Sealing Entry Points
Once we’re confident all bats are out, we seal all known and potential access points using materials bats can’t chew or squeeze through.
4. Cleanup
Guano removal and attic sanitation are critical steps to protect your home and air quality. We can safely clean and deodorize affected areas.
How to Prevent Bats From Coming Back
After removal, it’s all about prevention. Here’s how you can keep bats from returning:
Seal Cracks and Gaps
Inspect your roofline, chimney, attic vents, and siding. Even a gap as small as half an inch can be an entry point for a bat.
Install Chimney Caps
A secure, vented chimney cap prevents bats (and other animals) from entering while allowing smoke to escape.
Use Fine Mesh Screens
Cover attic vents and eaves with durable screening material to block access while still allowing airflow.
Reduce Outdoor Lighting
Bats are attracted to insects, and insects are drawn to lights. Use motion sensors or shield outdoor lighting to reduce food sources around your home.
What NOT to Do
It might be tempting to set traps, use repellents, or block holes without checking for bats. But these tactics often make things worse—and in some cases, they’re illegal.
- Don’t seal entry points while bats are inside. You could trap them and cause them to die in your home.
- Don’t use poison or smoke. These are inhumane and extremely dangerous.
- Don’t ignore the problem. A single bat might leave on its own. A colony? Not likely.
Bats Don’t Belong in Your Home, But We’ll Help Them Leave
Dealing with bats might feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Whether it’s a single stray or a full colony, Genuine Pest Control is here to help you handle it safely, legally, and effectively.
We offer professional bat removal and prevention services so you can protect your home, your family, and even the bats—without any drama.
Got bats in your attic or walls?
Reach out to Genuine Pest Control today to schedule an inspection and take the first step toward a bat-free home.
