Bats
Order Chiroptera
Bats Facts and Information
Appearance and Identification: Bats are the only mammals capable of sustained flight. They have elongated fingers covered by thin skin, forming wings. Sizes vary from the tiny bumblebee bat (around 1.3 inches) to the giant flying fox (up to 5.6 feet wingspan). Colors range from black, brown, and gray to red and tan. Bats have sharp, small teeth for diet purposes, and many species use echolocation for navigation.
Habitat: Bats are found almost everywhere in the world except extreme deserts and polar regions. They typically roost in caves, crevices, tree cavities, and man-made structures like attics and barns. Some species live solitarily, while others form colonies of thousands.
Diet: Most bats are insectivores, consuming numerous insects, including pests. Others feed on nectar, pollen, fruit, fish, or even blood. They play a vital role in pollination and controlling insect populations.
Reproduction: Most bats mate during the fall and winter. Females usually give birth to one pup per year after a gestation period of 40 days to 6 months. Pups are dependent on their mothers initially but mature quickly.
Precautions: While bats are beneficial, they can be a nuisance when they roost in human structures. Their droppings (guano) can damage property and pose health risks. Bats can carry rabies, so never handle them directly. Bat infestations should be handled by a professional contact Grizz Pest to safely relocate them without harming them.
Bats Facts & Information: Bats make up one-fifth of the mammal population on Earth. There are over 1,400 species of bats worldwide. They can live over 20 years; despite the myth they aren’t blind. Their contribution to ecosystems through insect control and pollination is invaluable. Bats are an indicator species; their presence or absence can reveal the health of an environment.
FAQs About Bats
Can bats bite people?
Yes, bats can bite people if they feel threatened or cornered. However, such occurrences are rare, as bats generally avoid human interaction. Any bat bite should be taken seriously due to the risk of rabies.
How can I prevent bats from roosting in my home or property?
Preventing bats from roosting in your home or property involves several steps:
- Seal Entrances: Bats can enter through small gaps. Identify potential entry points like loose siding, roof gaps, chimneys, and vents, and seal them.
- Use Bat Exclusion Devices: These allow bats to leave but not re-enter the building. They should be used in accordance with local wildlife protection laws.
- Maintain Yard: Trim tree branches that are close to your property to limit potential roosting sites.
- Professional Inspection: Consider regular inspections by wildlife professionals to ensure your property remains bat-free.
Remember, many bat species are protected by law, so always check with local regulations or consult Grizz Pest before attempting any bat control methods.
What are some signs of a bat infestation?
Signs of a bat infestation include:
Sightings: Spotting bats around your property, especially at dusk when they typically leave their roost to feed.
Sounds: Hearing squeaking, scratching, or fluttering noises, particularly at night or in the early morning when bats are most active.
Guano: Finding bat droppings or ‘guano’, which are often dark, shiny, and contain insect parts. These may be found beneath their roosting spot.
Stains: Discovering brown stains around small holes or crevices, which could be caused by the oil on bats’ fur.
Smell: Noticing a strong, unpleasant odor from accumulated guano and urine. In heavy infestations, this smell can be overpowering.
If you identify any of these signs, contact Grizz Pest Management. We are professional wildlife experts and can help you safely remove bats from your premises.