6 of the Most Frequently Asked Questions about Bat Removal

What is the Bat Extraction Process?

The bat extraction process involves safely removing bats from a property without harming them and ensuring they don’t return. First, professionals conduct a thorough inspection to identify entry points and nesting areas. Once identified, exclusion devices, such as one-way doors, are installed at these entry points. These devices allow bats to exit but prevent them from re-entering. After ensuring all bats have left, the exclusion devices are removed, and the entry points are sealed to prevent future infestations. The final step typically involves cleaning and disinfecting the areas where bats were roosting to remove guano and reduce the risk of disease transmission. This humane approach ensures the bats are safely relocated without harming them or the property.

Who Do You Call to Remove Bats?

To remove bats from your property, you should contact a professional wildlife removal service or a pest control company about bat removal that specializes in bat extraction. These experts have the necessary experience, equipment, and knowledge to handle bat infestations humanely and effectively. They can assess the situation, implement exclusion methods, and ensure that all entry points are sealed to prevent future issues. Additionally, they often provide cleaning and decontamination services to address any health hazards associated with bat guano. It’s important to choose a licensed and certified professional to ensure the removal process complies with local wildlife regulations and protects both your property and the bats.

How Much Does Bat Removal Cost?

The cost of bat removal can vary widely depending on factors such as the size of the infestation, the accessibility of the nesting area, and the location of the property. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $500 and $5,000 for professional bat removal services. Smaller infestations with easy access points tend to be on the lower end of the cost spectrum, while larger or more complex infestations can be more expensive. Additional costs may arise if significant repairs or decontamination are needed, especially if guano has accumulated and caused damage. To get an accurate estimate, it’s best to contact several wildlife removal services for quotes specific to your situation.

What Are the Risks of a Bat Infestation?

A bat infestation poses several risks, both to the health of the inhabitants and the integrity of the property. One of the most significant health risks is the potential for histoplasmosis, a respiratory disease caused by inhaling spores from the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum, which can grow in bat guano. Bats can also carry rabies, although transmission to humans is rare. Structurally, bat guano and urine can accumulate and cause damage to insulation, wood, and other building materials, leading to costly repairs. The strong odor associated with guano can permeate living spaces, making the environment unpleasant. Additionally, the presence of bats often attracts other pests, such as mites and insects, further complicating the situation.

Does Pest Control Remove Bats?

Yes, many pest control companies offer bat removal services, but it’s important to choose one that specializes in professional wildlife control services. Unlike general pest removal, bat extraction requires specific techniques and equipment to safely and legally remove bats without harming them. Pest control professionals experienced in bat removal will conduct a thorough inspection, use exclusion devices to allow bats to leave the property, and seal entry points to prevent their return. It’s crucial that the pest control company follows local wildlife regulations, as bats are often protected species, and improper removal methods could result in legal consequences.

Do Bat Exterminators Kill Bats?

No, reputable bat exterminators do not kill bats. Instead, they use humane exclusion methods to remove bats from properties without harming them. Killing bats is not only inhumane but also illegal in many areas, as bats are protected species due to their important role in ecosystems, particularly in controlling insect populations. Professional bat removal experts focus on safely extracting bats and ensuring they cannot return by sealing entry points. The goal is to relocate bats to a more suitable environment while protecting the property from future infestations. Always choose a licensed and certified wildlife control service that prioritizes humane practices in bat removal.