Bat Control 101: Tips and Tricks for Indiana Residents

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!

Related Posts:

Exploring the Echolocation Behavior of Common Bat Species in Indiana
Uncovering the Nocturnal Habits of Bats in Northern Indiana
Everything You Need to Know About Indiana Bat Conservation Strategies

Everything You Need to Know About Indiana Bat Conservation Strategies

Indiana bats are a vital part of our ecosystem, yet they are one of the most endangered species in the United States. These nocturnal creatures play a critical role in maintaining a balance in our environment, notably through insect control. However, their population in Indiana and across the nation has seen a drastic decline, primarily due to habitat loss, white-nose syndrome, and human disturbance.

This blog post aims to shed light on the importance of Indiana bat conservation and the different protection strategies currently in place. We’ll delve into the challenges faced by these bats, the efforts to secure their habitats, and how you can contribute to their conservation. This is a call to action for all of us to protect these fascinating creatures before it’s too late.

Call 317-535-4605 For Professional Bat Removal Service Near Indianapolis
Call 317-535-4605 For Professional Bat Removal Service Near Indianapolis

Endangered Bats of Indiana

Indiana bats are the only native bat species in Indiana. They were first listed as an endangered species in 1967 due to their rapid decline in population. The main factor behind this crisis is habitat loss, which is caused by land development and deforestation. This has drastically impacted their foraging and roosting sites, resulting in a decrease in food sources and overall safety. White-nose syndrome is another major concern. This fungal disease has been affecting bats in the US for more than a decade, decimating their numbers and resulting in mortality rates of up to 90%.

Current Bat Conservation Efforts

Fortunately, there are several conservation efforts underway to protect these endangered Indiana bats. The first step has been creating secure bat habitats that are free from human disturbance and safe from white-nose syndrome. For instance, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has been working with local landowners to create large bat sanctuaries and preserve their existing roost sites. Additionally, state authorities are studying the impact of wind turbines on these bats to ensure their safety when they migrate in search of food sources.

In addition, public awareness initiatives are being carried out to educate people about the importance of protecting these endangered bats. By raising awareness, we can all help reduce the threats they face and protect their habitats. One such campaign is the Indiana Bat Education Program, which was launched in 2019 by IDNR to spread knowledge about bat conservation and create a better understanding of their plight.

How to Do Your Part to Protect Bats in Indiana

There are many ways for you to contribute to Indiana bat conservation. You can join volunteer programs or donate to organizations that are dedicated to preserving their habitats and securing their future. Another way is to become an advocate for bats and spread the word about the importance of protecting them. Finally, make sure your home is “bat-friendly” by avoiding pesticides, providing nesting boxes, and minimizing outdoor lighting.

How to Safely Manage Nuisance Bats Around Your Home or Business

While bats play an essential role in our ecosystem, sometimes they can become a nuisance around homes and businesses. If you spot bats near your property or inside your home, it’s important to remember that any wildlife species is protected by law and must be handled with caution. Here are some tips for managing nuisance bats:

The first step is to identify the bat species. Some bats are protected and must not be disturbed or harmed in any way. Make sure to identify the species before taking any action.

If you see a single bat inside your home, open all windows and doors to allow it to escape. Never try to catch it yourself as this can cause injury.

If there is an infestation of bats near your property, contact a wildlife professional to assess the situation and provide advice on how to safely remove them.

Make sure to check for any regulations or restrictions in place when it comes to dealing with bats in your area. You likely need a licensed professional to assist you with bat removal.

Once the bats have been safely removed, look for ways to prevent future infestations by sealing any entry points and removing food sources such as pest insects.

In Summary

Indiana bats are a valuable part of our environment, and we must act now to ensure their future survival. By working together, we can make sure Indiana’s bat population is safe from harm and that their habitats remain intact for generations to come. So, join us in the fight and be part of the solution!

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.

Related Posts:

Federally Endangered Bat Species in This Region
Why Bat Removal Services are So Important
Common Uses for Bat Guano

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

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.

Call 317-535-4605 For Indianapolis Bat Removal Services
Call 317-535-4605 For Indianapolis Bat Removal Services

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!

Related Posts:

A Comprehensive Guide to Bat Proofing Your Home
What To Look for in Professional Bat Removal Services
How to Safely Get Rid of Bats in Your Home

How to Tell if You Have Bats in Your Home

If you have bats in your home, it’s important to take steps to remove them as soon as possible. Bats can be dangerous if they’re allowed to stay in your house, and they can also cause a lot of damage. Below are some tips on how to tell if you have bats in your home and how to get rid of them.

Call 317-535-4605 to Get Rid of Bats in the House in Indianapolis Indiana!
Call 317-535-4605 to Get Rid of Bats in the House in Indianapolis Indiana!

Indianapolis Bat Removal For Residential Properties

If you have bats in your home, it’s important to take steps to remove them as soon as possible. Bats can be dangerous if they’re allowed to stay in your house, and they can also cause a lot of damage. Here are some tips on how to tell if you have bats in your home and how to get rid of them.

Look for signs of bats. Bats can be difficult to spot, but you may notice some common signs that indicate the presence of bats in your home. Look for bat droppings (guano) near windows and doors, or along walls. You may also hear a high-pitched buzzing sound coming from inside your walls or attic.

Inspect your home for entry points. Bats are small, so they can squeeze through tiny gaps and crevices. Inspect the outside of your home, looking for cracks and holes that bats could use to enter. Pay special attention to areas near rooflines, as well as around eaves, windowsills, and vents.

Set up security cameras. If you suspect that bats are living in your home, set up some small security cameras to help monitor the situation. Such devices can be purchased online or at any local department stores, They will allow you to track and control the population of bats in your home.

Call a professional. Although there are many DIY solutions for getting rid of bats, the best way to ensure they are removed safely and effectively is by bringing in a professional. A licensed and insured Indianapolis bat removal company will be able to identify all of the entry points, as well as provide you with advice on proper bat control and prevention strategies.

Get Rid of Bats in the House Now

Taking steps to get rid of bats early on can help prevent more serious issues from developing down the line. If you think bats are living in your home, follow these tips to make sure they’re removed quickly and safely. For any further questions or concerns related to bat removal, bat control, or bats in the house, please contact a licensed pest management professional. They will be able to provide effective solutions that are tailored specifically for your home.

Have bats been tormenting your property? You’re positive you have bats in the house? Don’t endure their infestation any longer! Contact us at 317-535-4605 for fast and affordable bat removal service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are DNR certified and insured experts who provide solutions to residential and commercial clients. Ask for a complimentary estimate or advice right away!

Related Posts:

5 Areas of a House That Might Be Infested With Bats
Does My Apartment Have Bats?
How to Get Rid of Bats in the Chimney

The Dangers of Having Bats in Your Home

Having a bat infestation in your house is dangerous for a number of reasons. Bats can carry rabies, and their droppings can contain harmful bacteria. In addition, bats may damage your property as they try to get into the building. If you have a bat infestation, it is important to take steps to remove them as soon as possible.

Continue below to learn the top reasons why bats are so dangerous, and why you should have them removed as soon as possible.

Call 317-535-4605 For Indianapolis Bat Removal!
Call 317-535-4605 For Indianapolis Bat Removal!

What are Bat Infestations Dangerous?

Bats Can Carry Rabies

Bats can carry rabies, which is a deadly disease. If you are bitten or scratched by a bat, you should go to the hospital immediately. Rabies can be prevented if it is treated early, but if left untreated, it is fatal. Rabies can be transmitted to humans through contact with the saliva of a rabid animal, such as a bat. To protect yourself and others, it is best to stay away from any wild animals that may carry rabies.

Additionally, bats should never be kept as pets or allowed in the home. Doing so puts both you and the bat at risk for rabies, as well as other diseases that can be spread through contact with bat saliva or feces. If you discover a bat in your home, it should not be touched and should be removed by a professional wildlife removal service.

Bats Can Spread Other Diseases

Bats can also spread other diseases besides rabies, such as histoplasmosis. Histoplasmosis is a serious lung infection that can be fatal if not treated. It is caused by a fungus that is found in the droppings of bats and other birds. To protect yourself from histoplasmosis, it is important to avoid contact with bat droppings and to wear a mask when cleaning up droppings.

Other diseases that can be spread by bats include meningitis, encephalitis, and SARS. All of these diseases are serious and can be deadly if not treated. It is important to take precautions to avoid exposure to bat saliva and feces, especially if you are pregnant or have a weakened immune system.

Bats Can Cause Extensive Damage to Your Home

Bats can cause extensive damage to your home. They often roost in attics, where they can chew through insulation, wiring, and roofing materials. They can also contaminate the attic with their droppings, which can cause respiratory problems in humans. If you have bats in your home, it is important to have them removed by a professional wildlife removal service. This will help ensure that all damage is repaired, and any health risks are minimized.

Bat Guano (Droppings) is Toxic and Can Contaminate Your Home

The dangers of bat droppings in your home are many. As mentioned, bat droppings can contain histoplasmosis, a lung infection caused by a fungus found in bat droppings and bird droppings. The infection can cause fever, chest pain, shortness of breath, and coughing. It can also cause enlargement of the liver and spleen, and death.

In addition, bat droppings can contain rabies. Rabies is a deadly virus that affects the brain and nervous system. It is often transmitted through the bite of an infected animal, but it can also be transmitted through contact with the saliva or blood of an infected animal. Once symptoms develop, it is almost always fatal.

If you find bat droppings in your home, be sure to take precautions to avoid exposure to the droppings and the organisms they may contain. Wear gloves and a dust mask when cleaning up the droppings, and immediately clean up any spills. Disinfect any surfaces that may have been contaminated. If you think you may have been exposed to rabies or another infection, seek medical attention right away.

If you have bats in your home, take immediate action. Contact Bat Removal Indiana at 317-535-4605 for licensed and insured bat removal services in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties. We serve both residential and commercial clients.

Related Posts:

3 Common Damages Caused by Bat Infestation
Where to Get Help With Your Bat Infestation Insurance Claim

Up to Date Facts About Bats and Rabies

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.

Get Rid of Bats Indianapolis Indiana 317-535-4605
Get Rid of Bats Indianapolis Indiana 317-535-4605

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.

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.

Related Posts:

Where to Get Fall and Winter Bat-Proofing Service in Central Indiana
Nuisance Bat Control in 3 Steps or Less
Top 3 Reasons Why Bats are Ecologically Important

Why You Need a Professional for Bat Removal in Indianapolis

Bats are truly fascinating and remarkable creatures, as well as an important component to our surrounding Eco-system. They eat thousands of mosquitos and insects each night, and they are the only mammal capable of true flight! These two facts alone are reason enough to love and respect bats. But what if bats are becoming a nuisance on your property? In this case, you need a professional bat removal specialist. Bat extraction and exclusion are delicate processes that should only be carried out by a licensed wildlife control company in Indianapolis.

There are several reasons why you should never attempt to remove bats on your own. Continue reading to find out why!

Professional Bat Removal Indianapolis 317-535-4605
Professional Bat Removal Indianapolis 317-535-4605

The Importance of Professional Bat Extraction

You must hire a licensed wildlife control company to get rid of bats in Indianapolis. Why? Well, there are many reasons, but the top 3 are 1) bats are known carriers of several infectious disease, including the Rabies virus; 2) bats generate massive damage and biohazardous conditions; and 3) they are extremely difficult to get rid of without the proper resources.

Bats Carry and Spread Disease

Bats are commonly associated with the Rabies virus, and they very well should be. This does not mean that all bats have rabies, but many can be carriers without ever showing signs of the virus. You never know if a bat has Rabies, or other infectious diseases.

In addition, their droppings and guano can produce infectious spores that cause an illness called Histoplasmosis. This illness primarily affects the lungs and respiratory system but can also harm other vital organs. Histoplasmosis can be fatal if left untreated.

Professional bat removal companies retain proper training and equipment to accurately identify diseases and combat them safely. Attempting to get rid of bats on your own can result in a bat bite, contamination from droppings, saliva, or urine, and structural damage to your home.

It is Difficult to Get Rid of Bats Unless You are Properly Equipped

It takes specialized equipment, knowledge, training, and most importantly, state licensing and permits, to remove bats and apply preventative maintenance strategies to bat-proof a property. Professional Indianapolis bat removal teams retain the latest technologies and local industry resources to efficiently locate, identify, extract, and exclude bats, regardless of their roost infestation location.

Furthermore, it is important to understand that most bat removal companies in Indianapolis provide minor restoration services for damages caused by a bat infestation or tampering, such as insulation replacement, bio-hazard cleanup, decontamination services, and crawl space repairs. Most importantly, a professional bat removal specialist can educate home and property owners about proper bat prevention, and how to identify signs of a bat infestation.

Do you need to get rid of bats in or around your property? Contact us at 317-257-2290 for professional and prompt Indianapolis IN bat removal services you can trust. We serve residential and commercial clients throughout Central Indiana.

Related Posts:

Never Attempt to Remove Bats By Yourself
Does Histoplasmosis Come From Bat Guano?
Facts About Rabies in Bats

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

The 3 Species of Nuisance Bat in Indiana

Here in Indiana, there are many species of nuisance wildlife. But when it comes to bats, they are at the top of the list. Bats are highly destructive to houses and buildings, and pose many health hazards as common carriers of several infectious diseases. There are three species of bat that are the most common nuisance bats found in Indiana, so if you have bats in the attic or house, it is likely one of these three species.

Continue reading to learn more about each species of bat native to Indiana, and how to safely get rid of them.

Indianapolis Bat Removal and Control 317-535-4605
Little Brown Bat (Myotis lucifugus)

Big Brown Bat

The Big Brown Bat is a member of the fuscus species, and most native to North America, the Caribbean, and even parts of Central America. As medium-sized bats, they grow up to 13 centimeters in length, and can weight up to 16 grams. Like the Little brown bat, they are also nocturnal, echolocating, and insectivorous. They roost during the day, usually in hollow trees, and hunt for insects at night. They are known as a nuisance bat in some areas, commonly taking refuge in residential and commercial structures like sheds, attics, crawl spaces, and more.

Little Brown Bat

The little brown bats are among the most common bats found in North America. They are covered in shiny brown, sleek-looking fir, with a lighter patch of fir on their bellies. They are usually around 3 to 3 ½ inches in length, and weigh only a fraction of an ounce. Although small, their average wingspan is more than double their body length, generally between 6 and 8 inches. They can live up to 30 years or more, average between 20 and 30 years specifically.

Breeding season is generally around September and October, but females actually store the male sperm for springtime fertilization, making baby bats born in the summer. Gestation is generally 50 to 60 days, and once born, sexual maturity is reached between 6 and 8 months. Females generally give birth to just one bat pup a year, but sometimes two.

Mexican Free-Tailed Bat

Mexican Free-Tailed bats are sometimes known as Brazilian Free-Tail bats, but also called Guano bats, because they produce large amounts of droppings. They are also incredibly fast at flying, reaching up to 99 miles per hour! In fact, they are now proven to be the fasted flying animal in the world, being 30 miles per hour faster than the fastest bird! Furthermore, they can fly higher than any other bat, at extremely high altitudes up to 10,000 feet. No other animal or human can survive this altitude because of the lack of oxygen!

As for their name, it is derived from their free-hanging tail that extends beyond their tail membranes. And they also have wrinkled lips, distinctive to their particular genus. When it comes to being a nuisance, Mexican Free-Tailed bats might be the most destructive since they form the largest colonies out of all other warm-blooded species. If you have an infestation of these in your attic, it can be a long and expensive renovation.

Non-Lethal Indiana Bat Removal and Control

If you have nuisance bats, call 317-535-4605 to speak with a friendly and knowledgeable wildlife abatement specialist about Indianapolis bat removal services and solutions. Don’t let bats damage your property and cost you thousands of dollars in renovations! Let our DNR licensed and insured bat removal specialists provide the workable solutions you need.

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

What Do Bats Eat in Indiana?

With spring in full affect, you are more likely to catch a glimpse of feeding bats at dusk. This is even more likely if you live near a creek or body of water where insects like to linger and fly around. As a result of these increased sightings this time of year, it is natural to feel a bit threatened by the present of local bat populations.

But do not worry; bats will not attack so long as you keep your distance and never provoke them. And most importantly, do not believe the common myth that bats will suck your blood. Although there is a species of bat that consumes the blood of livestock, here in Indiana, bats are on a completely different kind of diet.

Continue reading to learn exactly what bats are eating night after night!

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

Microchiroptera Bats are Insectivores

Microchiroptera bats, also known as microbats, are the only Suborder of bats found in Indiana, and they are all insectivores. Insectivores are any living organisms with a diet that consists mostly of insects. A lot of well-known animals are insectivores, including hedgehogs, anteaters, armadillos, moles, and more. As for bats, you can add them to the list too.

A Bat’s Diet

A single bat can consume more than its own body weight in insects, in just one single evening. That’s an average of 1,000 insects or more. Since bats usually live in large colonies, a single group can eradicate millions of insects each night in just one area! That is why they are terrific pest control for our local crops, farmers, and even our own backyards. Mosquitoes are one of their favorite insects, which helps keep outdoor activities more fun, and abates the spread of mosquito-transmitted diseases.

The most common types of insects bats eat here in Indiana include:

↠ Mosquitoes
↠ Flies
↠ Gnats
↠ Moths
↠ Dragonflies
↠ Termites
↠ Beetles
↠ Grasshoppers
↠ Bees
↠ Wasps
↠ And Other Flying Insects

If Bats Get Too Close…

If you find a bat in the attic, house, yard, or other area of your property, it is strongly recommended to contact a local bat removal and control company for professional assistance. Never attempt to touch, trap, catch, or kill a wild bat. This means it is not a good idea to keep them as a pet either. Although bats are highly advantageous to our surrounding Eco-systems by controlling mosquito populations and pollinating forests, they are also dangerous to humans and pets, and should never be handled by an untrained individual under any circumstances.

Indianapolis Bat Removal Services You Can Trust

Call 317-535-4605 for bat removal and control in Indianapolis, Indiana. 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

Common Mating Rituals of Male Microchiroptera Bats

Bats will never let you down when it comes to learning something new and interesting. They are a fascinating species of mammal, and the only mammals capable of true flight. On top of this remarkable trait, bats also exhibit unique mating behaviors; many of which are not exhibited by any other mammals in the animal kingdom. For instance, not all bat species retain the same mating seasons and practices. Different species mate and breed at different times, as well as locations.

Continue reading to learn more facts about microbat mating, and what to do if you come across a bat problem on your property this breeding season.

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

Hibernacula and Breeding

Bats that live in temperate regions migrate from their summer homes to their winter hibernation spots. This behavior is called hibernacula and it is where breeding takes place. These bats generally mate toward the end of summer into early fall, and females will actually store the male bat’s sperm for the next breeding season. But bats that live in hot or tropical regions don’t migrate at all. In fact, their mating practices are based solely on seasonal variations of food supply.

How They Choose Mating Partners

The way in which bats choose and court other bats is quite diverse. As for hibernating species of bats, they put on an annual flying show, showing off their agile flying and acrobatic skills in an attempt to court female bats. They will fly in huge swarms, darting and dipping, and performing impressive aerobatics. Once the show dies down, bats will couple up and find seclusion to mate. Although it is not yet proven whether or not female bats prefer more agile males, because of this fascinating phenomenon it is certainly a theory among researchers.

Showing off is certainly a theme among mating bats since other arboreal species like to use their talents to court female candidates too. For instance, Hammer-Head bats use their enlarged larynx and nasal cavities to “honk” at females.  During mating season, males line up in trees along the riverbank and call out to female bats that fly by. They use honking, grunting, and cooing sounds until they win the attention of a willing female Hammer-Head.

Even more interesting and somewhat similar, male sac-winged bats use their flying skills and pheromones to impress and court female bats. They hover in front of them, wafting their fumes and powering their wings until a female accepts. Other species of bat, like the Horseshoe bat, prefers discretion over showmanship. Instead of swarming, wafting, and honking to court their females, this species of bat lets the female come to them. Female bats will track down male Horseshoe bats, and then visit them at their private roost to mate.

Indianapolis Bat Removal and Control

Call 317-535-4605 for prompt and professional Indianapolis bat removal and control you can trust. We are DNR licensed and insured wildlife control contractors that specialize is safe, non-lethal bat exclusion and extraction services. Whether commercial or residential, we are fully-equipped to extract from any property. We also provide 24 emergency bat removal, dead animal removal, bat proofing, attic restoration for bat damages, and more. Request a free estimate, anytime.