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Bat information: a complete guide

Bats are a vital part of the ecological system of this planet and can provide a valuable service, but they become a pest when they decide to make your attic their home. Learn more about these animals with our detailed bat guide.

A big brown bat, with black wings and a brown body

What are bats?

Bats are the only mammals that can fly. They have wings made of thin skin stretched over elongated finger bones, which gives them their distinct look. Most bats found near homes in the United States feed on insects, while others eat fruit or nectar, depending on the species.

Although bats are helpful in nature, they can become a concern when they roost in buildings. They can enter homes through small gaps in roofing, vents, or siding. Once inside, they may stay in attics, wall voids, or other quiet areas. Their presence is usually noticed by droppings, called guano, which can create strong odors and lead to staining.

If you have bats on your property, call Western Exterminator. Our technicians can help get rid of bat colonies inside your home and identify and block access points to prevent bats from returning.

Call us at 844-481-9957 or fill in the form below to schedule an appointment today.

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See how Western Exterminator controls different types of wildlife.

Exterminator with a torch checking an attic for bats

Are bats hard to get rid of?

Once bats have settled in, they’re difficult to remove without professional help. Because they’re protected in many areas, removal must be done at the right time and in the right way to comply with local and national legislation.

Our bat control experts can inspect your property and recommend safe, humane solutions. Learn more about our bat control services for lasting protection.

Our bat control services
Exterminator with a torch checking an attic for bats

 Bat prevention

Preventing bats from getting inside is often easier than removing them after they’ve settled in. Bat prevention focuses on sealing small openings around roofs, vents, and siding that bats might use to enter a structure. It can also include adjusting lighting or removing nearby food sources, depending on the property.

A bat control technician can help identify the best prevention methods based on your specific situation. Learn more about our bat prevention services.

Types of bats

Bats are found throughout the world. Many bat species live across the United States, but only a few are commonly found in or around buildings. Each species has its own habits, preferred roosting spots, identifying characteristics like size and color, and signs of activity. While bat identification guides can be useful, it often takes the trained opinion of a professional to identify a species.

Some of the more common bat species include the following:

Want more information on the different types of bats found in the U.S.? Visit our bat species page.

Are bats dangerous to humans?

Although bats are beneficial in helping control insect populations, pollinate plants, and spread fruit seeds, they are known as pests for a reason. They are often the source of several diseases, like rabies and histoplasmosis. While the risk of transmission is fairly low in most cases, it’s still important to handle bat problems carefully. 

 

Bat control made easy with Western Exterminator

If you think bats are roosting in or around your home, our bat removal experts are here to help. We can inspect your property, identify entry points, and recommend humane solutions tailored to your situation.

 

Frequently asked questions

Because bats are protected in many areas and removal must follow specific rules, it’s best to hire a trained technician to deal with bats. Information like this can protect both yourself and the species.

Common signs include droppings (guano) near entry points, squeaking or scratching sounds at dusk or dawn, and sightings of bats flying in or out of the building.

Bats don’t chew or scratch like rodents, but their droppings can stain surfaces, create odors, and contribute to mold growth if left uncleaned.

Bats can live almost anywhere, from forests and caves to urban buildings and attics. Their preferred habitat depends on the species, but most choose warm, quiet spaces for roosting.

Most bats in North America feed on insects like beetles, moths, and mosquitoes, while some tropical species eat fruit or nectar. Their diverse diet makes them a valuable part of local ecosystems.

Yes, bats are nocturnal mammals, meaning they are most active at night. Their behavior helps them avoid predators and find food under the cover of darkness.

Bats use echolocation - a natural sonar - to navigate and hunt. This allows them to detect tiny insects even in complete darkness.

Bats play a vital role in nature by pollinating plants, spreading seeds, and controlling insect populations.

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