3 More Myths About Getting Rid of Bats
Bats are fascinating creatures, but when they invade your home, they can become a significant concern. At Gold Country Wildlife Control, we encounter many myths about bat removal that can lead to ineffective and sometimes harmful practices. Here, we debunk three more myths about getting rid of bats and provide insight into the proper methods for bat exclusion.
Myth 1: Bat Houses Will Draw Them Out of the Attic and Into the Bat House
The Myth: Installing a bat house nearby will encourage bats to leave your attic and relocate to the bat house.
The Truth: Expecting bats to leave the comfort and security of your attic for a bat house is like expecting someone to leave their home for a tent in the yard. Bats prefer the stable environment of an attic over an outdoor bat house, which might not provide the same protection from predators and the elements. While bat houses are excellent for providing alternative roosting sites, they should not be relied upon as a solution for removing bats from your attic.
Myth 2: Trapping and Relocating Bats is Effective
The Myth: Trapping bats and relocating them far away will solve the problem.
The Truth: Bats are remarkable creatures with impressive navigation skills. They have been known to travel over 300 miles, particularly during migration. Trapping and relocating bats is not only ineffective but can also be harmful to the bats. They may struggle to find food or shelter in a new location and might attempt to return to their original roost. Additionally, relocation does not address the root cause of the infestation: the entry points to your home.
Myth 3: Waiting Until Night to Seal the Hole is a Good Idea
The Myth: Sealing bat entry points at night, when bats are out, is a good strategy.
The Truth: Sealing entry points at night can lead to several issues. Not all bats may leave the roost at night or dusk, potentially trapping some inside. Trapped bats may try to find new exits, which could lead them into your living spaces. Moreover, it's crucial to seal all potential entry points before sealing active ones to prevent bats from finding alternative ways into your home. Always use a bat excluder cone to allow bats to exit without re-entering.
The Proper Way: Bat Exclusion
The most effective and humane method for removing bats from your home is through bat exclusion. This process ensures that bats can exit but cannot re-enter, ultimately encouraging them to find new roosting sites. Here’s how we do it at Gold Country Wildlife Control:
Inspection: We identify active and potential entry points through signs like urine stains, guano, and grease rubs.
Sealing Non-Active Entry Points: We seal all potential entry points first, using materials like caulk for wood gaps and metal for roof returns.
Installing Bat Excluder Cones: Over active entry points, we install bat excluder cones that allow bats to exit but not return.
Screening Ridge Vents: We use Ridge Guard to screen ridge vents, preventing bats from entering these common points.
This method ensures a comprehensive approach, preventing future infestations and keeping your home bat-free.
Serving Northern California
Gold Country Wildlife Control proudly serves Nevada County, El Dorado County, Placer County, including Truckee, South Lake Tahoe, and Grass Valley. Our expertise in humane wildlife control ensures your home remains safe and free from unwanted bat guests.
If you’re dealing with a bat infestation, avoid these common myths and rely on professional, humane exclusion methods. Contact Gold Country Wildlife Control today for expert assistance and peace of mind.
