What appears as birds might not always be birds. Bats in the chimney is a common, unexpected surprise for homeowners who suspect they have a bird infestation. Nonetheless, getting rid of bats in the chimney is a much similar process to removing birds, and an easy one at that. Continue below to learn what it takes to get rid of bats in the chimney, plus keep them out for good.
Why Bats Roost in Chimneys
Why did bats choose the chimney of all places on your property? Well, many reasons, but to name a few: easy access, consistent privacy, cozy quarters. By knowing what attracts bats to your house, you can better get rid of them. Let’s first start with the telltale signs of bats. It is important to distinguish between a bird and bat infestation, and fortunately, that’s easy to do.
Bats Versus Birds: Signs to Look For
Bats are nocturnal, which means they are active from dusk till dawn. Most birds are active during the opposite hours. So, if you are hearing fluttering, flapping, rustling, or shuffling noises coming from the chimney in the evening and early morning hours, it could be bats and not birds. On the other hand, it is possible to hear bats inside the chimney during daytime hours too.
On the topic of sounds, birds sound much different than bats. While birds are chirpers and tweeters, bats vocalizations typically sound more like squeaking, chattering, or even clicking.
Also, bat droppings and bird droppings are quite difference in appearance, namely color and viscosity. We have all seen bird poo before. Bat poo looks nothing like it. In fact, bat droppings, referred to as guano, look closer to rodent droppings.
Perhaps the most noticeable signs of an animal infestation, regardless of location, is smell. The smells generated by their droppings, urine, and coats eventually seep down into the living quarters of the residence. Generally foul or sour, these odors generally become more detectable over time.
How to Get Bats Out of the Chimney
To get rid of bats in the chimney, you will need to follow a short series of steps. DO NOT start a fire or attempt to close the chimney fluke. Not only is this inhumane, but it can be against the law. A few bats, including the Indiana bat, are endangered or threatened, and therefore, federally-protected.
Instead, contact a local and licensed critter control company that specializes in bat removal and control. They have the proper resources, permits, and equipment to safely extract bats from the chimney, then set up animal-specific abatement strategies to protect your home from future wildlife invasions. This may include a chimney cap and attic vent covers.
Are you pretty sure you have bats in the chimney or attic of your residence? Contact us today at 317-535-4605for licensed and insured Indianapolis bat removal services you can trust. We serve both residential and commercial clients with home inspections, bat removal, bat proofing, bat cleanup, and more. Request a free estimate or advice, today!
Related Posts:
5 Areas of a House That Might Be Infested With Bats
Where to Get Help With Your Bat Infestation Insurance Claim
Schedule an Attic Inspection if You Think You Have a Bat Infestation