Bat Removal

When we get a bat call there are many things to take into consideration. The architecture and age of the home are probably two of the biggest questions. Bats tend to key-in on areas such as rooflines, louvered vents, soffit gaps and other construction gaps. Location is also a factor. There are certain neighborhoods that have more bat problems due to location close to a large feeding area.

Bat inspections are very involved. It is crucial to check everything, as bats are very good at finding new spots once they have been evicted from a structure. Once they are removed after getting used to a particular roost, they’ll want to get back. During a normal bat inspection, we take time to get on the roof, in the attic and around the exterior several times, looking for any signs of where bats might be entering and exiting the structure. Once we have determined the main entry points, we look for areas they may move to once they are evicted and try to roost or get back in. 

We then seal up all potential areas and install exclusionary devices to let the bats out but not back in once they return from their nightly feeding. It is very important that this be done at the correct time of year. We do not exclude bats from a roost in the summer months from May 15th through August 15th because this is the time of year they could have young in the roost. After August 15th, the young are big enough to fly and are feeding with their parents nightly. This is when we install the exclusionary devices so we can ensure no bats get trapped in the roost. Contact us today and ask about bat removal.

• There are nine species of bats commonly found in Missouri. Three of these species are known to roost in houses and buildings, with the big brown species being the most common to inhabit structures. Bats in Missouri are insectivores; they help keep insect populations in check. They do not drink blood or attack humans although they will defend themselves if threatened.

• We do have several endangered species of bats in Missouri and they will roost with more common species such as the “big brown.”
This is why we only exclude bats to ensure they have a safe way out and are not harmed. They simply must go find a new place to live.

•Rabies is known to occur in bats but is not common — less than 1% become rabid. If exposed to a bat bite or scratch, it is vital to get the bat tested and consult your physician.

• Bat droppings may contain histoplasmodium spores, which are fungi that may cause histoplasmosis and other respiratory problems when airborne. In large colony situations, we do provide cleanup services to remove all droppings and contaminated insulation to prevent poor air quality in the home.

• Bats may also bring other unwanted invaders to your home. Bat bugs are common on roosting bats; they are blood mites that live off the bats and are very similar to the more commonly known bed bug. Once the bats have been evicted and the house sealed to prevent re-entry, it is important that a pest control treatment be done to get rid of any leftover bat bugs.