Tag Archives: bat control

5 Areas of a House That Might Be Infested With Bats

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Although bats have high ecological value, we do not one them roosting around our properties.  They can cause a range of structural damages inside and outside, and pose a long list of health and safety hazards. For these reasons and more, it is in your best interest to resolve a nuisance about problem before it can get worse. One of the best ways to protect your home from nuisance bad infestations is to implement routine inspections of your property.

Start with some of the more common areas bats like to hide, including these 5, below.

Indianapolis Bat Removal and Control
Indianapolis Bat Removal and Control 317-535-4605

Attics

Bats love the dark warm climate of an attic space, which is why you typically find colonies roosting here. Attics are one of the first places professional bat abatement specialists check when they are implementing a property inspection for bat activity. After the sun sets, the air currents come in through the vents, cooling the attic down. Bats are sensitive to such air currents, so they awaken them every evening when it is time to go hunt for insects. The cycle continues until an extraction is performed.

Crawl Spaces

Crawl spaces are another common place to find roosting bats, and for much of the same reasons you find them in attics. Crawl spaces are dark and warm, making for a cozy spot to rest during the day. They are also accessible through gaps and openings high in the house, or through conduits and utility vents.

Chimneys

Chimneys are very common spot for bats to roost, particularly because they are so easy to access. They can also crawl down from the fireplace through a wall, crack, or gap. The most common signs for bats and chimneys are seeing accumulations of guano (bat droppings) around the structure.

Roofs

Bats are also known to choose rooftops for roosting. They particularly target the corners of a roof, near the vents in the upper siding or the roofing and louvers. Bats will also roost underneath shingles, especially in tile roofing systems. This can cause all sorts of damage, including missing shingles, cracks, water leaks, and more.

Log Piles

Although you wouldn’t suspect it, bats enjoy the warm and cozy privacy that log piles offer. They are very easy to access, and often go unsupervised and unused for weeks at a time. This can be somewhat dangerous if a bat is surprised by searching fingers reaching for a fire pit log. It can also pose a problem with disease, and put your home at a higher risk of interior bat infestations.

What To Do if You Find Bats

If you discover bats living in or around your property, it is important to immediately separate yourself and your loved ones (including cats and dogs) from the vicinity of their roosting area. Under no circumstance should you ever attempt to touch or trap a wild bat. Your next step is to contact a licensed Indiana bat removal and control company for emergency bat extraction services. Whether day or night, skilled professionals have the experience and resources necessary to safely remove bats from any location, at any time.

Indianapolis Bat Control Assistance You Can Afford

Call 317-535-4605 for professional Indianapolis bat removal services you can trust. We are DNR licensed wildlife rescue and control professionals who specialize in a wide range of residential and commercial bat abatement services. We only use safe and humane methods to extract bats and prevent their return, and offer the most competitive prices in town. Request a free estimate, today.

Indiana Bat Removal 317-535-4605
Indiana Bat Removal 317-535-4605

Are Bats Still Hibernating?

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Bats greatly rely on the biological instinct of hibernation, also known as hibernacula, to help survive the harsh conditions of winter. In fact, the word hibernation comes from the Latin word hibernare, which literally means to pass the winter. During hibernacula, bats enter into a stasis called torpor, in which major metabolic changes take place, including a reduction in body temperature, heart rate, and breathing rate.

Although many animals hibernate for the winter, bats in particular happen to be experts. However, this does not mean they take advantage of their hibernacula abilities; as soon as conditions are right, bats will come out of torpor and integrate back into the Eco-system for spring, summer, and fall.

But when does this actually take place? How long do bats stay in hibernation? Continue reading to find out!

Indianapolis Bat Removal and Control 317-535-4605
Indianapolis Bat Removal and Control 317-535-4605

Hibernation Periods of Indiana Bats

One of the most common hibernating species of bat is called the Indiana bat, or Myotis Sodalis. The first of its kind was discovered in 1904, in Wyandotte Cave in Southern Indiana, hence the name “Indiana” bat. Their scientific name, Myotis Sodalis, is quite fitting since Myotis means mouse ears, which happens to be an accurate depiction of the Indiana bat, whose ears are small and mouse-like. The latter term, Sodalis means companion, which also fits because they are a very social and collective species. They form large colonies and cluster together when it comes time to hibernate.

An interesting fact about a bat’s hibernacula is that they accumulate and store a particular type of fat cells called “brown fat” on their backs, shoulder blades, and bellies. This helps them retain proper body heat and energy to survive the hibernation period. Unfortunately, they are an endangered species, so their winter survival has a lot at stake. They usually hibernate for a period of 6 months, and then emerge once late spring arrives. They move to their summer homes, usually in wooded areas.

Nuisance Bat Problems are Real

Unfortunately, climate changes, land over-development, and more can push bats out of their natural habitat, thus forcing them to find shelter in urban and suburban settings. This is how most bats become a nuisance problem for homeowners. If you have a bat problem in or around your property, contact a licensed Indianapolis bat removal company for professional assistance you can trust.

Indianapolis Bat Removal Services You Can Trust

Call 317-535-4605 for affordable Indianapolis bat removal services, solutions, advice, and more. We are highly-trained and DNR licensed bat removal contractors that offer a wide range of non-lethal bat exclusion and extraction services for residential and commercial properties. We also offer bat cleanup, bat damage repair, and bat-proofing services. Call 317-535-4605 for Indianapolis bat removal you can trust.

Indiana Bat Removal 317-535-4605
Indiana Bat Removal 317-535-4605

Classification and Taxonomy of Bats

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Did you know that bats are the only mammal capable of true flight? They are also one of the only mammals known to consume blood! Bats are fascinating creatures, and fun to learn about. They are found in regions spanning all across the globe, varying in looks, size, diet, navigational traits, and more. Bats are certainly worth a study or two, and can actually teach you a lot about animal understanding and tolerance.

For example, bats have been pushed out of their natural habitats and forced into urban areas due to human over-development; as a result, they are frequently regarded as pests, rodents, and nuisance animals.

But the truth is, bats are an essential part of our surrounding ecosystem, and they play an integral role in mosquito and insect control in our parks and backyards every night. If you are tuned-in and ready to learn about bats, you need to start with the basics. Continue reading to learn the classification and taxonomy of bats.

What are Bats?

Bats are classified by 9 categories in terms of taxonomy. In order from biggest to smallest, these categories include kingdom, phylum, subphylum, class, order, suborder, family, genera, and species. There are two suborders of bats, Microchiroptera Megachiroptera. There are 16 “families” of Microchiroptera bats, but only 1 family of megabats called Pteropodidae. The Pteropodidae includes Old World Fruit Bats and Flying Foxes. And even more interesting, there are 187 “genera” of bats, and over 950 species!

According to the Integrated Taxonomic Information System (ITIS), this is the taxonomy of bats is…

I. KINGDOM: Animalia

II. PHYLUM: Chordata

III. SUBPHYLUM: Vertebrata

IV. CLASS: Mammalia

V. ORDER: Chiroptera

VI. SUBORDER: Microchiroptera, Megachiroptera

VII. FAMILY: Noctilionidae, Pteropodidae, Antrozoidae, Vespertilionidae, Rhinopomatidae, Mystacinidae, Craseonycteridae, Molossidae, Emballonuridae, Nycteridae, Megadermatidae, Rhinolophidae, Mormoopidae, Phyllostomidae, Natalidae, Furipteridae, Thyropteridae, Myzopodidae

VIII. GENERA: 187 is too many! Click here for a complete list.

IX. SPECIES: Over 950! Click here for a list.

Indianapolis Bat Removal and Control

Call 317-535-4605 for affordable and safe bat removal services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are DNR licensed and insured bat removal and control technicians with over 30 years of experience in the bat control industry. We offer bat removal, prevention, exclusion, proofing, structural damage repairs, attic restorations, inspections, free estimates, discounts, and more! Call 317-535-4605 to get started toward a bat-free future, today.

Myths About North American Bats

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There are many myths and false stereotypes about bats in North America, and even all across the world. Here in this blog, we’ll explore a few of those urban legends and clear up the misunderstandings surrounding these highly important and fascinating mammals.

Common Bat Myths

One common myth is that all bats carry the Rabies virus and infect millions of people around the continent every year. This is far from the truth. The reality is that fewer than 10 people in the last 50 years have been infected with Rabies as a result of a bat bite. Bats typically avoid people, and rarely attack unless cornered or provoked. If you are ever bitten by a bat, all you need to do is consult a doctor and you’ll be just fine.

Another bat urban legend is that some bat species consume blood, namely human blood. This urban legend is not entirely false, just embellished a bit. It is called a vampire bat. They do not actually suck blood, but rather, initiate a bite to a large warm-blooded animal, and then lick up the seeping blood. It is usually cattle that are the common hosts for Vampire bats. They do not bite or consume human blood.

Another common myth concerning bats is that all bats are blind. This is also not true. The misconception comes from the fact that Microbats use echolocation to hunt for insects and food at night. All bats actually see quite well during the day, it’s just that they mostly remain active at night, where they do not count on their eyesight to get around.

Have you ever heard that bats have hundreds of litters of bat babies? Well hopefully not, because this is not the truth. Bats are mammals and have a gestation period of about six months. Once they give birth, it is to usually one bat pup, and in rare cases, it may birth twins. It takes a long time for an entire bat colony to grow. Once bats are grown enough to withstand predators and fly on their own, they can live to almost 30 years!

Many also believe that bat droppings are poisonous. There are some special circumstances to this myth, but for the most part, it is untrue. Bat droppings are referred to as “guano”. Guano is a huge resource for many villages and tribes around the world. People craft household necessities from guano and use it for fertilizer as well. There are many uses for bat guano. However, bat guano can be harmful to ones health if it is digested or inhaled during a sporing stage. This is when fungus species begin to grow on the guano. Around large amounts of guano, people are encouraged to wear face respirators to avoid inhaling the fungus that can cause Histoplasmosis.

The Truth About Bats

Between movies, television, Halloween, and childhood stories, bats have been given an unfair stereotype. They are actually fascinating mammals with a sophisticated system for hunting and flying at night. They breed their young as humans do, having one pup a year; and they have incredible survival skills! They will not fly into your hair or suck your cat’s blood. They are trusting creatures that deserve respect and peace. If they are a nuisance to your property, use a local bat removal service to have them safely excluded.

Indianapolis Bat Removal

Call 317-535-4605 for prompt and professional Indianapolis bat removal and control services. We provide safe and humane bat removal for commercial and residential properties throughout Central Indiana. Trust us to remove bats and prevent their return, all at an affordable price. We are DNR licensed and insured wildlife control contractors with more than 20 years of experience working with nuisance bats. Call 317-535-4605 to get rid of bats in Indianapolis, IN today.

How to Protect your Home from Bat Intrusion and Infestation

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A bat infestation within your home can be harmful in many ways. Not only can your family be at risk of bat bites, diseases, and encounters; the structural integrity of your house is also vulnerable. Bat droppings, nesting, breeding, feeding, and more can cause extensive amounts of damage to several areas of a home. Attics, crawl spaces, wall interiors, garages, and roofs are common areas for wild bats to roost. These are the areas that need to be most protected.

Wild animal exclusion is the best way to prevent bat disturbances on any property. With a little effort and attention to detail, you can have your home or office protected from bats and various other wild animals too! Continue reading to learn some effective ways to prevent bats from entering your property, and who to call for expert advice and service in your neighborhood.

Assess the Property Surroundings

It is important to determine how attractive your property can be to bats. Are there overgrown shrubs and bushes all around? Any nearby watering holes? Are there trees in close proximity to your house? Is this the type of environment a bat colony can flourish in? These examples are proven habitats for wild bats. In heavy shrubbery they can find abundant food sources in insects, fruit, and nuts. Nearby trees gives them easy access to rooftops which can lead to potential attic entry. Gaps in windows and doors can also give them access inside. You must first look for all these clues to start preparing your house for bat exclusion. Here are some areas and tricks to use to protect your house from bat invasion:

• Always Keep All Doors and Windows Shut or Enclosed at Night

• Secure All Window Screens; Be sure they Fit Properly

• Use Aerosol Foam Insulation, Weather-Proofing Strips, or Hardware Cloths to Plug any Exterior Holes on the House or Rooftop

• Use Yellow Lights, Rather than the Traditional Outdoor Light Bulbs, to Attract Less Insects; thus Eliminating One of their Chief Food Sources

• Purchase and Install Stainless Steel Chimney Caps

• Seal All Exposed Holes in Exterior of House

• Place Liberal Amounts of Eucalyptus or Mint Leaves in Attics and Crawl Spaces to Thwart Bats from Entry

• Hire a Licensed Bat Removal Company to Facilitate Proper Exclusion Services All-Around

These tips and more can all be helpful when it comes to protecting your home from wild bat intrusion or infestation. Bats can cause a considerable amount of damage to a home, so it is vital that they are removed as soon as they are detected. The best way to prevent bats from destroying your property is to hire a licensed bat control company to implement professional bat exclusion techniques and services that are guaranteed to work.

Indianapolis Bat Exclusion Services

To get in touch with a professional bat control technician for bat exclusion services in Indianapolis, IN, just call 317-535-4605 today. We are DNR licensed and insured bat control and removal specialists with more than three decades of experience in the industry. We offer free estimates, DIY advice, references, coupons, discounts, structural damage repairs and restorations, and more! Visit our webpage at http://www.batremovalindianapolis.com for details about our services and company credentials. Call 317-535-4605 for free information about how to protect your home from bat intrusion and invasion in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding cities and towns.

The Difference Between Megabats and Microbats

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There are several thousand bat species in the world; however, all bat species can be classified into one of two suborders, mega or micro bats. Many people are unaware that there are bats that do not use echolocation; or would be surprised to hear that some bats have fur, whereas others do not. Continue reading to learn the major differences between megabats and microbats; as well as, examples of certain species in each suborder.

Microbats

Microchiroptera is the scientific name for micro bat species. They are also known as small bats, true bats, echolocation bats, or insectivorous bats. Although these are the common names we use to refer to microbats, most of these terms are inaccurate. For example, not all microbats are smaller than megabats. Also, some microbats do not even feed on insects.

Indeed, some microbats do not eat insects; however, most do consume insects for food. Larger species of micro bats hunt lizards, frogs, and even small birds. Vampire bats, scientifically referred to as Desmodus Rotundus, have a dietary trait call hemotophagy. This means their primary food source is blood; usually of other animals.

Micro-bats use echolocation, also called bio sonar. This is a system in which sound waves are produced to create echoes that allows an animal to locate and identify objects. Echolocating bats call out to the surrounding environment, and then listen for the echoes to return. It is a system that basically helps them navigate where they are and where they are going; like eyesight without eyes. The larynx generates an ultrasound that is emitted through their noses or mouths. It is a fascinating and effective way to pilot mid-flight.

Certain species of microbats include Leaf-Nosed Bats, Vampire Bats, Bumblebee Bats, Vesper Bats, Funnel Eared Bats, Mouse-Tailed Bats, Horseshoe Bats, Pallid Bats, Disk-Winged Bats, Smoky Bats, Bulldog Bats, Fisherman Bats, and more.

Megabats

Megachiroptera is the scientific name for megabat species. They are also referred to as Flying Foxes or Fruit Bats. These bats are interesting because they do not eat insects or drink blood; rather, they feast on nectar and fruits. They have strong and sharp teeth that allow them to bite through tough fruit skins. Some bats drink the juice; while others eat the fruit.

Megabats have a heightened and powerful sense of smell; which is good considering they do not use echolocation like their cousin the microbat. Instead, mega-bats have very large eyes that help them familiarize themselves with their surroundings in twilight, caves, and forested areas.

Common species of megabat include Tube-Nosed Fruit Bats, Pygmy Fruit Bats, Spotted-Winged Fruit Bat, Borneo Fruit Bat, Short-Nosed Fruit Bat, Small White-Winged Flying Fox, Short-Nosed Fruit Bat, Madagascan Fruit Bat, Black Bellied Fruit Bat, Monkey-Faced Bat, Black Flying Fox, Nectar Bat, Small-Toothed Fruit Bat, and much more.

If you are experiencing problems at home or work with microbats or megabats, call Bat Removal Indianapolis at 317-535-4605 in Indiana, today. We are DNR licensed and insured bat control specialists that only use safe and humane capture and release methods to get rid if bats in residential or commercial properties. Visit our website at http://www.batremovalindianapolis.com for details about our services and company background. Trust our professional bat exclusion technicians to get rid of bats in Indianapolis, IN right now!

Five Steps to Catching a Bat in the House

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If a bat finds its way into your home, it is important to know what to do. Removing a bat on your own can be risky, so be sure to use extreme precaution if you insist on getting rid of a bat without the help of a professional. Continue reading to learn the fastest and safest way to catch and remove a bat in your house without harming it or causing any damage to your home or family.

Step One: Take Precautionary Measures

Before you start attempting to capture a bat in your home, first be sure you are protected. Put on a pair of sturdy, thick gloves to protect your hands from potential bites and scratches. Also, open all the doors and windows in the rooms the bat is occupying to give it a clear exit. Sometimes, a bat will sense the fresh air and migrate toward it on its own. The easiest way to get rid of a flying bat in your house is to let it fly out on its own. When this doesn’t seem to work, continue on to the next step.

Step Two: Allow the Bat to Land

When you have a bat flying rapidly through your living room, you instinctively want to swat at it mid-flight or capture it in the air. This is a normal reaction, but not the most effective one to follow. Bats are agile flyers, and they can remain in flight for a long time. If you continue to aggravate or alarm the bat, it will continue to fly around. It can knock over valuables, fly through your hair, scratch up walls, and more. It is best to not overwhelm or aggravate a wild bat in your home. It can make the process much more difficult. It is almost impossible to catch a panicked bat in the air. Simply take a break, stay out of the bat’s way, and allow it to land somewhere in order to take the next step. You can also use a coffee can or other container to gently coax the bat down from high places.

Step Three: Safely Restrict Their Flight

Wait for the bat to land low, if possible. This will give you an advantage and more control. When the bat does land, use a medium bath or kitchen towel and toss it on top of the bat. This will immediately restrict its flying capabilities and can even force it to remain still. Try locating a heavier towel with thick fibers. This will ensure even more protection for you and the bat. You never want to kill or harm a bat. They are highly beneficial to our ecosystem and surrounding environment. Always try to use safe and humane practices when handling a bat.

Step Four: Scoop Up the Bat

Once the towel in on top of the bat, it will not be able to take off again. Scoop the towel in your hands and wrap the bat up. Use a minimal degree of force so that you do not hurt the bat in any way. You may hear clicking sounds coming from the bat; this just means they are frightened. Once you have the bat scooped and wrapped in your towel, you can continue to the last step.

Step Five: Release the Bat

After a long process, the bat could be tired and scared, so try to place it next to a tree that it can climb. It is easier for a bat to take flight from a tree than the ground. If there are no trees around, simply release the bat far from your property, away from other residential areas. Ideally, the bat will immediately fly away as soon as you let it outside. Remove the towel from the bat and allow it to hop on the ground. It should take flight soon after.

If you would like professional advice on how to catch a bat in the house in Indianapolis, IN, call our bat removal experts at 317-535-4605 today. We are DNR licensed and insured bat control and bat exclusion professionals with decades of experience working with bats. We are happy to offer free estimates, advice, and general information on bat control any time. Visit our website at http://www.batremovalindianapolis.com for information about our company and bat removal and control services we offer in Indianapolis, IN.

The Facts about Bat Guano and Histoplasmosis

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Bat guano is more commonly known as bat droppings, which refer to their fecal discharges. Bat guano, in other cultures, is a dominant natural resource used for fertilizer and other agricultural commodities. It even has a history as an ingredient in war explosives. Bat guano is prevalent in caves, of course, being a widely-known bat dwelling area. However, in residential and commercial areas of society, bat guano can sometimes be found in other areas, such as homes, buildings, attics, crawl spaces, and other dark, secure places.

What is Histoplasmosis?

Histoplasmosis is an infectious disease that goes by many names. Among its various aliases, you will see it be called Spelunker’s Lung, Cave Disease, Ohio Valley Disease, Reticuloendotheliosis, and Darling’s Disease. Histoplasmosis is a disease passed on by a fungus called Histoplasmosis Capsulatum that grows in bat guano. This disease has symptoms similar to the flu, such as coughing and difficulty breathing. It is caught by inhaling the spores of the fungus. It is not contagious, but is can be easily inhaled unknowingly and active within days.

Who is at Risk to Catching the Disease?

Anyone can get Histoplasmosis, depending on where they are and what is happening around them. For example, a person with an extreme bat infestation problem in their attic can unknowingly inhale fungus spores and get the illness eventually. The more common victims would be cave miners and spelunkers, chimney cleaners, construction workers, repair people and HVAC workers, or anyone else in a field where they might be around dark, warm places often. Basically, anyone who comes across the fungi can be exposed and conflicted with it.

Is it Life Threatening?

In most cases, the answer is typically no. In other rare or extreme cases, fatality can occur. If an elderly person with a weakened immune system is heavily exposed over a long period of time, then it could be fatal. If the symptoms are bad and go untreated, fatality can also occur. But in most cases, the symptoms are mild and tend to go away on their own. Many people are unaware they even had Histoplasmosis because it is so similar to the common cold. If you are even feeling under the weather and think it could be related to bat guano or Histoplasmosis, contact your family doctor to set up a checkup right away.

For more information on bats in the attic, or bat removal, contact our licensed animal control company in Indiana at 317-535-4605 today. We are happy to provide free estimates, DIY assistance, and guidance on bat infestations and more. Be sure to visit out Indianapolis Bat Removal website for a list of our services too!

How to Catch a Bat in Your House

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Bats are very helpful little creatures because they eat thousands of nuisance bugs every day in backyards all across America. Bats are great to have around the home, outdoors, but indoors is a different story. No one wants to share their home with a bat, so if you find yourself in a situation where you have one flying free in your home, follow these simple steps to release it back to nature.

Protect Yourself

Be sure to grab a pair of heavy duty gloves, particularly leather if you have it. Bats do have claws and can bite if provoked, so wearing a thick glove will protect your hands when you reach for the little critter. A bat bite can be a bad situation because you never know what disease or bacterial infection they are carrying. If you are bitten by a bat, contact your doctor, local clinic, or hospital right away.

Set Up an Exit Strategy

Before attempting to catch the bat, open windows and doors in case the bat takes flight. With an open window in sight, the bat can most likely free itself.

Coax the Bat Down

If the bat is high up on a ceiling or wall, you will have to coax it down to a point where you can reach it. In order to do this, you will have to use a broom stick or something long enough to provoke the bat to change locations. Do not hurt the bat and use gently swaying motions to get the bats’ attention.

Catch and Release the Bat

Once the bat is in a reachable spot, use a plastic container, towel, or coffee can to gently trap the bat against the wall. Then slide the container or towel slowly down the wall and cup the bat without pinching it. Once you have it cupped in the towel or container, immediately take it outside and shut your door so that it cannot fly back inside again. Then place the container on the ground and allow the bat to fly free. If the bat seems fatigued, feel comfortable to help it on its way by placing it near a tree. Bats have trouble taking off into flight from the ground, so placing it by a tree can allow it to climb the tree and fly away later.

If you have difficulty catching the bat and have attempted more than a few times, it is better to call a professional bat removal expert to handle the situation with the proper equipment. It is even more important to call a Bat Control company if you have more than one bat in your home. Never try to catch and release multiple bats. It is not a DIY task. Our expert bat removal specialists have many years of experience safely and humanely capturing and relocating bats in Indiana. Call us today at 317-535-4605 for free estimates and advice on bat removal services in Indianapolis, IN.