Bats in the Attic: How to Safely Remove Them and Restore Your Home

Posted on March 26, 2024 by batremoval

Bats, being nocturnal creatures, are seldomly seen but often heard in the night sky. However, if those chittering echolocations start coming from the roof of your home, it’s a clear indication that you may have some unexpected guests – a bat colony setting up roost in your attic. Beyond just the eerie sounds, a bat infestation poses health hazards and structural risks to your home. It’s crucial for homeowners to address this issue swiftly and with care.

This comprehensive guide is designed to walk you through the necessary steps to handle the presence of bats in your attic—from understanding the signs of infestation to the post-removal restoration of your living space.

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Identifying a Bat Infestation Problem

The first step to resolving any bat-related issues is to recognize the signs of their presence. Common indicators include squeaking or scratching noises during the evening as bats become active, as well as the discovery of droppings called guano in your attic. Guano is often found in mounds on the floor and can resemble rodent droppings but are larger and have a somewhat shiny appearance due to the remnants of insect parts.

Why Prompt Bat Removal is Critical

Aside from the unsettling clamor, bats in the attic can cause significant damage. Bats are not only messy but also chew on attic insulation and can even cause structural damage with their roosting habits. Furthermore, bat guano can harbor fungal spores, such as those that cause histoplasmosis, presenting a severe health risk to you and your family.

Understanding Bat Behavior

To approach a bat infestation safely and effectively, homeowners must comprehend why bats are drawn to attics in the first place.

The Attraction to Attics

Attics provide the ideal conditions for bats to roost and raise their young. These spaces are secluded, offer stable temperatures, and are safe from predators. Furthermore, they are often vulnerable to animal intrusions because many people overlook attic and roof maintenance.

Nesting and Roosting Habits

Bats are not simply resting in your attic—they likely view it as their home. During hibernation, female bats seek out warm, dark, and undisturbed areas to give birth and raise their pups. A colony can quickly grow in a short span of time, and a single female can return year after year, possibly with offspring in tow.

Potential Risks

The dangers of a bat infestation extend beyond mere annoyance or property damage. Direct contact with bats or their droppings can lead to a number of infectious diseases, including rabies. Histoplasmosis, a respiratory illness caused by the inhalation of fungal spores from guano, can be particularly problematic.

Steps to Take to Get Rid of Bats in Your Attic

If you suspect bats in your attic, don’t panic. There are clear measures you can take to resolve the issue. The initial step is to confirm the presence of bats and identify their entry and exit points. Do this by observing your home at dusk when bats leave to feed.

Professional Bat Removal Services

Given the complexity and risks involved, it is highly recommended to seek professional help from a wildlife removal specialist. They will employ humane exclusion methods to safely and legally remove bats from your attic.

Post-Removal Cleanup and Attic Restoration

Once the bats are gone, it’s time to clean up the mess they left behind. This involves removing guano, disinfecting, and restoring your attic to a bat-free state.

Legal Considerations

It’s important to be aware of the legal implications of removing bats. Many species are protected, so it’s crucial to follow the law when dealing with infestations. Certain species of bats are endangered or in decline, and laws are in place to protect them. This means removal must be conducted in a way that ensures the safety of the bats and their young, as well as exclusion methods that prevent their return.

Conclusion

Encountering bats in your attic is a serious matter, but by taking the right steps, you can ensure a safe and effective resolution. Remember to remain calm, act promptly, and consult with professionals who can guide you through the process. And always keep in mind the potential legal implications and the importance of respecting the wildlife you share the planet with.

Are you pretty sure you have bats in the attic or walls 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!

Bat Control 101: Tips and Tricks for Indiana Residents

Posted on January 25, 2024 by batremoval

Bats play a vital role in our ecosystems as pollinators and insect controllers, but they can become unwelcome guests when they roost in our attics and buildings. Indiana residents may occasionally find themselves needing safe, effective solutions for bat control. This comprehensive guide aims to empower homeowners, building owners, and landlords with the knowledge to navigate these situations conscientiously.

An Eastern Red Bat - Lasiurus borealis — An Eastern Red Bat – Lasiurus borealis

Common Bat Species in Indiana

Indiana is home to several Microchiroptera bat species, including the Indiana bat—Myotis sodalis—which is federally endangered, and the more commonly encountered Little Brown Bat—Myotis lucifugus. Other species of bat native to Indiana and surrounding parts include the Northern Long-eared Bat—Myotis septentrionalis, Tri-Colored Bat—Perimyotis subflavus, Big Brown Bat—Eptesicus fuscus and Eastern Red Bat—Lasiurus borealis. Microchiroptera bats, or microbats, are different from Megachiroptera bat species. Megachiroptera bats, or megabats, have larger eyes, are primarily fruit eaters and can be found in warmer climates.

Basic Bat Biology and Behavior

Bats, fascinating creatures of the animal kingdom, hold a unique distinction as the only mammals naturally capable of sustained flight. Drawing closer, we discover their intriguing behavior: during daylight hours, they seek refuge in dark and secluded areas, patiently awaiting the arrival of dusk. As the sun sets and darkness envelops the sky, these nocturnal beings emerge, ready to embark on their quest for sustenance.

With graceful flight, they traverse the night, skillfully maneuvering through the air in search of insects to feast upon. It is this evening activity that plays a crucial role in their survival, as they contribute to the delicate balance of nature by helping to reduce pesky insect populations. Truly, bats are a marvel of adaptation and an integral part of our ecosystem.

Identifying Bat Infestations

Attics, eaves, and wall cavities provide favorable conditions for bats to roost. These areas offer seclusion and protection from predators, creating an ideal habitat for these fascinating creatures. With their ability to navigate in the dark and their unique echolocation system, bats have adapted to thrive in these hidden spaces. By taking advantage of the shelter and safety provided by attics, eaves, and wall cavities, bats can establish colonies and contribute to the delicate balance of our ecosystem.

Signs of a Bat Infestation:

▶ Unusual sounds (scratching, squeaking) in walls or ceilings
▶ Accumulation of guano (bat droppings) in or around your property
▶ Sighting of bats flying in or out of buildings at dawn or dusk

Health Risks Associated with Bats

While bats are typically non-aggressive, it’s crucial to note that they can carry diseases such as Rabies. Additionally, bat guano can lead to respiratory disease known as histoplasmosis. Hence, exercising caution and refraining from direct contact is of utmost importance.

Bat Control Strategies:

▶ Sealing Entry Points – Identify and seal any openings larger than a quarter of an inch—bats can squeeze through surprisingly small gaps.

▶ Bat-Proofing Your Home – Installing bat boxes to provide alternative roosts and using mothballs or aluminum foil as deterrents can be part of an integrated control strategy.

▶ Maintaining a Clean Environment – Removing standing water and trimming tree branches away from structures can reduce attractants for bats seeking a habitat.

How to Ensure Humane Bat Removal

Due to the potential risks involved, as well as the humane and legal implications, it is crucial to hire professional bat removal services that specialize in bat exclusion techniques. These experts have the knowledge and experience to safely and effectively handle bat infestations, ensuring the well-being of both humans and bats.

Attempting to trap or handle bats yourself can be extremely unsafe and is potentially illegal. Bats are a protected species in many areas and interfering with them without the proper permits or expertise can have serious consequences. Indiana state law protects bats, and it’s illegal to kill or harm bats, including endangered species like the Indiana bat. Always follow state guidelines and obtain necessary permits for bat removal.

By relying on professional bat removal and control, you can have peace of mind knowing that the situation will be handled responsibly and in accordance with the law.

Conclusion

For Indiana residents, understanding the delicate balance between beneficial bat behaviors and the safety of human habitats is key. Proactive bat control is about coexistence and ensuring that we handle our winged neighbors responsibly. With the proper approach and professional guidance, you can address nuisance bat issues while contributing to the well-being of our natural environment.

Remember, if you suspect a bat infestation, prioritize safe, humane, and legal bat removal procedures. It’s essential to protect both your home and Indiana’s vital bat populations. Contact us at 317-535-4605 to schedule a critter control home inspection for bats, or for emergency bat removal services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We also offer free estimates!

Uncovering the Nocturnal Habits of Bats in Northern Indiana

Posted on September 11, 2023 by batremoval

In the silent twilight hours of Northern Indiana, an array of bat species takes to the skies in search of food and mates. These captivating creatures, shrouded in mystery and often misunderstood, lead an intriguing nocturnal life that is ripe for exploration.

In this blog, we’ll delve into the unique behaviors of Indiana bats, unpacking the reasons behind their nightly escapades and the distinctive traits that set different species apart. Join us as we embark on this fascinating journey, peeling back the veil of the night to reveal the unseen world of these remarkable flying mammals.

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Bat Species in Indiana

The state of Indiana is home to a wide variety of bat species, including the endangered Indiana bat. This particular species was listed as an endangered animal in 1967 and has since experienced considerable conservation efforts. The Indiana bat is also known for its shorter wingspan than other species, usually measuring between 7 and 9 inches across. Additionally, these nocturnal mammals are notable for their migratory behavior, traveling up to 500 miles round-trip during their annual migration.

But the Indiana bat is just one of many interesting species that can be found in Northern Indiana. Other bat populations include the Big Brown bat, Red bat, and Silver-Haired bat. Each of these species exhibits its own unique characteristics and behaviors, allowing us to gain a better understanding of the nocturnal habits of bats in the area.

Bat Activity

When it comes to their daily activities, bats typically begin their night by emerging from their roosts around dusk. During this time, they may forage for food, or engage in mating and social behaviors such as hunting together in groups. Bats have an incredibly diverse diet, dining on everything from insects to fruit and even the occasional mouse. Studies have shown that bats are capable of eating up to 1000 insects in a single hour, making them important predators for keeping insect populations in check.

Bat Habitats

We can also learn a lot about bat behavior by studying their roosts. Bats use roosts as a place to rest, socialize, and even raise their young. Roosts can range from crevices between tree bark to buildings, depending on the species and its needs. During the day, bats will usually rest in these roosts, reducing their body temperature and conserving energy for their nighttime escapades.

Bat Echolocation

Finally, one of the most important behaviors that bats exhibit is echolocation. This is a remarkable sonar ability that bats use to locate prey and navig a te their environment at night. Bats have special organs in their head that emit high-frequency sound waves, which bounce off of nearby objects and return to the bat. By listening for these echoes, bats can determine where they are and identify potential food sources with incredible accuracy.

Tips for Safe Bat Control

Though bats are fascinating creatures, they can be a nuisance if they enter human dwellings and roost inside. If you’re experiencing a bat infestation in your home, there are a few simple measures that you can take to handle the situation safely. Here are some tips for safe bat control:

☑ First of all, it’s important to ensure that all of your doors and windows are closed securely, as open entryways can be an invitation for bats to come inside.

☑ If you do find a bat in your home, don’t panic – bats are more afraid of humans than we are of them! To remove the bat safely, simply open a window or door in the same room and wait until it flies out.

☑ If the bat doesn’t seem to be leaving, it’s best to call an expert for help. A professional bat removal specialist will be able to safely remove the bat without harming it.

By following these tips and being aware of their environment, you can ensure that both bats and humans alike remain safe in their respective habitats.

Final Thoughts

Through careful observation of bats in their natural environment, we can gain a better understanding of these remarkable creatures and the nocturnal habits that make them so unique. The next time you spot a bat on a night-time stroll through Northern Indiana, take some time to appreciate its fascinating behavior and the secrets it holds about the hidden world of nocturnal animals.

Are you dealing with an increasingly risky bat population on or around your Indy property? Contact us today at 317-535-4605for professional Indianapolis bat removal services you can afford. We are DNR licensed and insured, serving both residential and commercial clients all throughout Central Indiana.

A Comprehensive Guide to the Different Types of Bats Found in Indiana

Posted on July 24, 2023 by batremoval

Indiana is home to a diverse array of bat species, ranging from the endangered Indiana Bat to the more common Big Brown Bat. As one of the most ecologically important animals in our state, bats play an essential role in keeping insect populations under control and providing valuable pollination services.

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the different types of bats that can be found in Indiana and their unique characteristics. We’ll also discuss how you can help protect these fascinating creatures from further endangerment. So, if you want to learn more about bats, read on!

Call 317-535-4605 For Licensed Bat Infestation Removal in Indianapolis — A Little Brown Bat in Hiding

Common Types of Indiana Bat Species

The Indiana Bat

Indiana is home to eleven species of bats, including the endangered Indiana Bat. This species is one of the smallest bats in North America and can be identified by its reddish-brown fur, yellowish wing membranes, and short snout. Indiana Bats are only found in certain caves during the summer months and are usually seen foraging low over the ground in search of insect prey. Therefore, if you plan on visiting any cave systems within Indiana’s borders, make sure that you take caution not to disturb these important creatures.

The Big Brown Bat

The Big Brown Bat is another common bat species found in Indiana. These larger bats typically roost in attics or barns but may also be observed flying around open spaces at night. These bats are identified by their glossy brown fur, long ears, and broad wings. Although they feed on a variety of insects, Big Brown Bats are especially attracted to moths, making them an important part of the local ecosystem.

Myotis Bat Species

Indiana is also home to two species of Myotis Bats: The Northern Long-Eared and the Little Brown Bat. The Northern Long-Eared Bat has long ears that extend longer than its head and can be distinguished by its grayish-brown fur and medium size compared to other bat species. This bat feeds mostly on small moths or beetles but may also eat spiders or small fish if necessary. On the other hand, Little Brown Bats are slightly smaller than the Northern Long-Eared Bat and has a lighter brown fur coat. Like the Northern Long-Eared Bat, it feeds primarily on moths or beetles but will also eat other small insects if necessary.

Endangered Bats

Finally, Indiana is home to two species of endangered bats: the Gray Bat and the Virginia Big-Eared Bat. The Gray Bat is one of the largest bat species in North America and can be identified by its distinctive gray fur and long ears. This species feeds mainly on flying insects such as moths or beetles but may also consume aquatic prey when available. The Virginia Big-Eared Bat is much smaller than the Gray Bat and has a light brown fur coat with distinctive large ears that are almost three times larger than those found on other bat species. This species mainly feeds on moths but may also eat beetles, caddisflies, or aquatic insects.

Ecological Benefits of Bats

Bats play an extremely important role in Indiana’s ecosystem by helping to control insect populations and providing valuable pollination services. However, both the Gray Bat and the Virginia Big-Eared Bat are endangered due to habitat destruction, and it is up to us to ensure these creatures remain safe in our state. By taking action now we can make sure that future generations of humans and bats can coexist peacefully for years to come!

Help Protect Bat Populations Around Indiana

For more information about bats in Indiana, be sure to check out the Indiana Department of Natural Resources website. You can also visit one of the many caves in our state to get a closer look at these incredible creatures! If you want to help protect bats in Indiana, consider joining a local conservation group or volunteering at a bat rehabilitation center. You can also install bat houses on your property. No matter how you choose to contribute, remember that preserving bats and their habitats is essential for maintaining balance within our ecosystems. So don’t forget –when it comes to bats, every effort counts!

If you have a bat problem, only trust a licensed and insured bat pest control professional for help extracting and managing them. Contact us at 317-257-2290 for professional and prompt Indianapolis IN bat removal services you can trust. We serve residential and commercial clients.

Common Signs of a Bat Infestation and How to Deal With One

Posted on June 16, 2023 by batremoval

No one wants to find out that they have a bat infestation in their home. Bats can cause considerable damage to your property and can even carry diseases like rabies. It’s important to be on the lookout for common signs of a bat infestation so you can take steps to deal with it quickly.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of these signs and what you should do if you suspect bats are living in your attic or other areas of your home. By being aware of the most common indicators, you’ll be better prepared to address any potential problem before it gets out of hand.

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Bat Infestation Signs to Look Out For

One of the most telling signs that you may have a bat infestation is seeing them fly around your property. Bats are most active at night, so if you see them flying in or out of your home during twilight hours, it’s likely they’ve taken up residence in your attic or other area. You may also notice droppings near entry points or gathering areas, as bats will often leave their waste behind. In addition to the noise caused by their wings flapping against the walls and rustling through insulation, you may also hear chirping coming from within your walls which could indicate a large colony of bats living inside.

How to Get Rid of Bats

If you suspect that you have a bat infestation, don’t attempt to remove them on your own. This could cause more harm than good, as bats can carry diseases and you don’t want to put yourself at risk of getting bitten or exposed. It’s best to contact a professional wildlife removal specialist who is trained in proper bat removal techniques. They will be able to assess the situation and implement an effective strategy for removing the bats from your home without putting anyone in danger.

Address a Bat Infestation ASAP

In summary, it’s important to be aware of common signs of a bat infestation so that you can take steps to deal with it quickly and safely. Keep an eye out for bats flying around your property at night, droppings near entry points or gathering areas, noise associated with their wings flapping against the walls, and chirping coming from within your walls.

If you suspect that you have a bat infestation in your home, don’t attempt to remove them on your own; instead, contact a professional bat removal and control company in Indianapolis who is trained in proper bat removal techniques. With these tips in mind, you can take the necessary steps to address any potential problem as soon as possible.

Do you have bats in the house and need professional assistance with extraction and infestation cleanup? Contact us at 317-535-4605 to schedule a critter control home inspection for bats, or for emergency bat removal services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We also offer free estimates!

10 Ways to Support Bat Conservation Efforts in the US

Posted on April 24, 2023 by batremoval

Bats are some of the most misunderstood and maligned creatures in the animal kingdom, but they play an important role in our environment. Unfortunately, many species of bats are endangered due to human activity and habitat loss. Thankfully, there are several ways you can support bat conservation efforts in the US.

From supporting local wildlife organizations to taking steps to control bat populations on your property, here are 10 ways you can help protect these amazing animals.

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How to Help With Bat Conservation in the United States

By learning more about bats and taking action to reduce their impact on our ecosystems we can ensure that future generations will be able to enjoy them for years to come. Here are ways you can help the nationwide initiative to protect bat species in our country and across the world:

1. Support local and national organizations that are dedicated to protecting bats. Organizations like Bat Conservation International, the Endangered Species Coalition, and the Center for Biological Diversity focus on efforts to protect bats and their habitats. Donating or volunteering your time to these organizations is a great way to show your support for bat conservation.

2. Join a community monitoring program that tracks the populations of endangered species in your area. Many states have programs where volunteers collect data about bat populations in order to better understand their needs and develop methods for conserving them. By participating in these programs, you can help inform decisions about future conservation efforts which will be critical for saving threatened species.

3. Plant native plants that provide food sources for bats. Bats are important pollinators and seed dispersers, so providing them with a source of food can help their populations thrive. Planting native plants that provide nectar or fruit for bats will also attract more of these animals to your area, providing them with much-needed habitat and resources. This only applies to tropic and subtropical regions that are home to Fruit bats, also known as megabats.

4. Build bat boxes on your property to provide more roosting sites for bats. Bat boxes are wooden structures designed to give bats a safe place to sleep during the day and hide from predators at night. By building bat houses, you can create additional habitats that offer protection to local species while also helping control pest insects in the area.

5. Take steps to reduce light pollution in your neighborhood or backyard. Too much artificial lighting can disrupt the natural cycles of nocturnal animals like bats, so turning off lights at night or installing motion-sensor lighting will help create an environment more conducive to their survival.

6. Help control bat populations in your area by using humane techniques. Such methods include exclusion barriers and one-way doors, which allow bats to leave a structure without allowing them back in. This makes it easier to keep their numbers in check while still protecting them from harm.

7. Educate yourself and others about the importance of bats. Learning more about these animals and sharing that knowledge with your friends and family is an important first step towards understanding why they need our protection. Bats are ecologically important. So, information campaigns can help build public support for conservation initiatives and may even lead to changes in government policy.

8. Participate in research projects that monitor bat populations or measure the effects of conservation efforts. By volunteering your time or donating money to these projects, you can help support valuable data collection and analysis which is essential for understanding how best to protect these species in the future.

9. Advocate for policies that protect bats and their habitats on a local and national level. Contacting your representatives about legislation related to endangered species protection or habitat preservation can make a big difference when it comes to ensuring the survival of these animals for generations to come.

10. Donate land or resources to organizations dedicated to protecting bats and their habitats. Unused land or financial contributions can be invaluable resources when it comes to creating and maintaining habitats for bat conservation. By donating land or resources you can help ensure that these species have a future in the US.

Help Protect Local Bat Populations

Taking action to support bat conservation efforts is an important way to ensure that these animals will be around for future generations. With so many different strategies available, everyone has a role they can play in protecting bats and their habitats. Every small effort counts and together we can make sure that the US remains a safe home for our furry flying friends. If you are experiencing issues with nuisance bats or bats in the attic, please do the right thing by calling a local and licensed bat removal and control company in Indianapolis for safe assistance.

Would you like professional assistance with securing your home or business against bat intrusions? Contact us at 317-535-4605 to schedule a critter control home inspection for bats, or for emergency bat control in Indianapolis, Indiana. We also offer free estimates!

Up to Date Facts About Bats and Rabies

Posted on October 24, 2022 by batremoval

Bats are the only mammal capable of true flight and have been present on Earth for over 50 million years. There are over 1,200 species of bats worldwide, making them one of the most diverse groups of mammals. While most people think of bats as being associated with dark places and spooky caves, they play an important role in many ecosystems.

Bats are important pollinators and help to disperse seeds, which helps to ensure the health of forests and other habitats. They are also a major food source for many predators, including owls, snakes, and some species of cats. In some cultures, bats are considered to be good luck symbols, while in others they are feared as omens of death.

Despite their beneficial role in nature, bats can also be carriers of disease. They are the natural reservoirs for a number of viruses, including rabies. While the risk of contracting rabies from a bat is low, it is still important to be aware of the potential dangers they pose.

In this blog, we will discuss more facts about the link between bats and the Rabies Virus, plus provide a bonus tip on how to safely get rid of bats if you are dealing with a nuisance critter problem in Indianapolis.

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What You Need to Know About Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system. It is typically transmitted through the bite of an infected animal but can also be transmitted through contact with saliva or other body fluids. The rabies virus attacks the brain, causing inflammation and ultimately death. Symptoms of rabies include fever, headache, muscle pain, weakness, paralysis, and seizures. The disease is almost always fatal once symptoms begin to appear but can be prevented through prompt treatment with a rabies vaccine.

Bats are the most common source of rabies infections in humans, accounting for over 60% of reported cases. While the risk of contracting rabies from a bat is low, it is still important to take precautions when around them. If you are bitten or scratched by a bat, it is important to seek medical attention immediately and to begin the rabies vaccination process. Be sure to keep your pets vaccinated against Rabies as well.

Bat Removal and Control

Bats are often considered nuisance pests due to their habit of roosting in homes and other structures. Bats can enter through very small openings, making them difficult to keep out. In addition, their droppings can contain harmful bacteria that can contaminate food and surfaces. If you have a bat problem, it’s important to take steps to remove and control them.

There are a few different ways to remove bats from your home or other structure. You can have a bat exclusion device installed, which allows the bats to exit but not re-enter. You can also have any openings sealed up that the bats are using to get into your home. Once the bats are gone, any areas where they were roosting needs to be cleaned and sanitized to prevent the spread of disease.

Are Indiana Bats in Hibernation Right Now?

Posted on February 21, 2022 by batremoval

Are you wondering where all the Indiana bats are right now? Do they hibernate? Do they migrate South? Do you suspect that you might have hibernating bats in the attic? Continue reading to learn some interesting facts about hibernation and bats, plus what you can do if you suspect a colony has taken up roost in your attic or home space.

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Hibernation is a Natural Instinct of Survival

When the winter is upon us and nights are blistering cold, there is nothing more desirable than a soft, cozy bed to retire in for the evening. As for many warm-blooded animals out there, the same desire is shared; however, these critters are not just concerned about comfort, finding shelter from the harsh winter weather is also vital to their survival through the season. During these times, food is scarce, and conditions are treacherous; for this reason, many animals find alternative means of survival. One such method is referred to as “hibernation.”

Hibernacula and Torpor

Several familiar species use hibernation, also referred to as hibernacula, which is an instinctual strategy, to help them survive the harsh winter season. During hibernacula, torpor is induced while major metabolic changes take place for the purpose of survival, including a drop in body temperature and reduced heart and breathing rate.

Animals like groundhogs, squirrels, chipmunks, raccoons, bears, and even bats use hibernation to pass the winter by. (The word ‘hibernation” comes from the Latin word, hibernare which means “to pass the winter.”) Many animals hibernate, but bats in particular are the experts.

Indiana Bats Hibernate in the Winter

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.

Why Do Bats 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.

But sometimes, land and real estate over-development can push bats out of their natural habitats, forcing them to find shelter elsewhere. 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 Indiana bat removal company that practices safe, humane, and non-lethal bat exclusion services.

Are you ready to confirm whether you have bats in the attic or need bat removal service? Contact us at 317-257-2290 for professional and prompt Indianapolis IN bat removal services you can trust. We serve residential and commercial clients.

Winter Bat House Installation and Placement Tips

Posted on November 26, 2021 by batremoval

Wintertime is almost here, which means that many local species of wildlife, like bats, are looking for suitable shelter to keep them safe and warm until spring season is here once again. One way home and property owners mitigate nuisance bat infestations and structural tampering this time of year is to provide bats a shelter far away from their home or building. These custom shelters are known as bat houses, and they can be extremely advantageous to both bats and property owners.

Continue reading to learn some helpful tips for adding a bat house to your property, including what to do if bats turn into a nuisance you can no longer control on your own.

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Bat House Facts and Advice

If you actually want to attract bats to your property, you are not alone. Bats play a vital role in our surrounding Eco-systems and provide excellent pest control for our backyards. Did you know a bat can consume an average of 1,200 insects in just one hour? In fact, they can consume their body weight in insects every single night! Now try finding a citronella candle that can eliminate that many mosquitos!

So, attracting bats to your property is a great advantage, so long as you have a large enough yard that is suitable for bat activity. One of the safest and most humane methods of attracting bats are the use of bat houses. These are similar to bird houses; except they are meant for a large quantity of upside down roosting bats.

How to Install Bat Houses

►THINK BIG

The first thing you should know about bat houses is that they should be big. Compared to a standard bird house, a bat house should be at least 3 times the size. That is because bats are not loners; they are always present in a colony. The suggested dimensions vary depending on various factors, but overall, it is important for them to be at least 20 inches tall, 16 inches wide, and retain a 3 to 6 inch landing area. Furthermore, you will get better results if you install more than one house. Bats respond better to houses of two or three grouped together.

► LOCATION IS KEY

Another important tip has to do with location. You do not want to install a bat house too close to your own because you can risk finding them inside your house instead of theirs. If this happens, simply contact a local wildlife rescue and control company for emergency bat removal service.

► PLACE IT FAR AWAY

Try installing your bat house at the perimeter of your property, preferably near a water source. If this is located near someone else’s property, it is not recommended. Otherwise, your neighbors could end up with bats in the house. Instead, mount them on sheds or large wooden or concrete structures. Avoid mounting them on poles, or worse, trees.

► CONSIDER YOUR PETS

If you have cats that like to wander around outdoors, you will not see a lot of bats on your property. If you want good results with your houses, keep your precious, four-legged friends indoors once the sun sets. Peak watching times may vary, but you will get the best views between the hours of sunset and complete darkness.

Are the bats in your community becoming too much of a nuisance and you need some professional assistance? Contact us at 317-257-2290 for professional and prompt Indianapolis IN bat removal services you can trust. We serve residential and commercial clients.

Top Warning Signs of a Bat Infestation

Posted on May 25, 2021 by batremoval

Bats are tiny, so tiny, they can squeeze through an opening as small as 3/8^th of an inch. That is similar to the width of a nickel! Common access points for bats include loose roof shingles, rotted siding, crumbling mortar, torn screens, damaged weatherproofing, thin layers of insulation, cracks in foundation, broken skylights, missing chimney caps, and similar structural vulnerabilities. All of this means that bats can easily find a way into our homes and structures if entry points like this exist. If you are concerned that you might have bats in the attic, or a bat in the house, it is important that you confirm it and resolve it as soon as possible.

Continue reading to learn the common signs to look for as you inspect your property, and how to get rid of bats safely.

Indianapolis Bat Removal and Control 317-535-4605

Bat Control is Important for Protecting Your Home and Loved Ones

It is important to consult with a licensed and insured Indianapolis bat control company to have your home inspected for possible structural vulnerabilities, as well as any contributing environmental factors that might attract nuisance wildlife to your home. Not only can a wildlife removal and control team abate nuisance wildlife, but they can also protect your property from animal damages and threats.

In the meantime, here are the top signs to look for during your inspection:

▷ Bat Droppings

One of the most common signs of bat activity around the house is bat guano. Bat droppings are often confused for rodent droppings, but if you find them around windowsills, door ledges, or in insulation, you can safely assume it belongs to bats.

▷ Grease and Oil Stains

Bat fur retains a natural oil that can leave behind dark stains around the edges of their entry points. If you find holes or openings with oil-like stains around the borders, it could be a bat opening. Look for these stains on window frames, door frames, walls, siding, cement, concrete, wood, and rafters.

▷ Strange Sounds

When bats are around and awake, you can hear them. Typical bat sounds include chirping, chattering, squeaking, squealing, fluttering, and bustling. These are commonly heard through walls or in the ceiling, but can also be heard from outside.

▷ Foul Odors

When bats occupy an interior area of a home for too long, their droppings can seep through rafters, floorboards, insulation, ceilings, walls, and eventually into the living areas of the home. This permeation can leave unsightly stains on the walls and ceilings, and cause lingering orders.

What to Do if You Spot Bats

If you actually see bats around dusk swooping in and out of your chimney or other area of your home, you can safely assume you have nuisance bats in close proximity. However, your home might not be a target just yet. Be sure to contact a wildlife control expert as soon as possible for help.

Are you ready to take control of your nuisance bat problem in Indiana? Contact us at 317-257-2290 for professional and prompt Indianapolis IN bat removal services you can trust. We serve residential and commercial clients.

You Should Also Read:

Where to Get Help With Your Bat Infestation Insurance Claim
How to Look for Bats in the Attic
Here’s Why You Have a Bat Problem on Your Property