If bats are flying around a Bensalem, Pennsylvania property, there is a chance that an infestation is nearby. When bat problems are encountered, such situations should be handled by a local pest control provider.
Bats are warm-blooded mammals that often hide inside during cold months. Many species in Pennsylvania hibernate, while some move out of the area. During hibernation periods, bats commonly move into attics, barns or sheds. Because they are small pests, they do not need much space to roost. Bats do not often roost alone and typically live in colonies, some exceeding 100 individual members. If left alone, some colonies can cause a problem requiring removal.
DOES MY PROPERTY HAVE A BAT INFESTATION?
Even if homes or buildings seem secure, bats can maneuver into small holes or cracks. Some bats, like the little brown bat, are less than four inches. Their small size allows them to squeeze into areas that home or property owners may not know are a possible entry point.
Some common signs that a property has a bat infestation include flying bats nearby, odors, staining and droppings, also called guano. Bats are nocturnal and are most active in the hours just before sunrise and after sunset. During these hours, bats will leave their colonies and venture out to find insects to eat. These animals are an important part of their ecosystem, eating up to 50 percent of their weight in insects every day. To eat so much, bats remain visible at night and can be seen flying near their roosts if an infestation is large enough. Bats are known to be the only mammal that is capable of flying, some moving at fast speeds of over 100 miles per hour. As they fly, bats use a technique called echolocation to find nearby food. In doing so, these mammals emit a high-frequency sound and listen for the reverberated echo to sense where nearby insects are located.
Typically, bats leave droppings, or guano, and stain marks if they are around long enough. Guano can accumulate over time and stain home siding, decks or other areas. Stains can also be present due to the greasy film on bat fur. Greasy stains and accumulated guano are both signs that a property may have a bat infestation. When guano accumulates, it is typically accompanied by a strong odor. This foul smell often resembles ammonia.
INSPECTING FOR BAT INFESTATIONS
If an infestation is suspected, a professional exterminator will inspect the property for signs of an issue. Technicians in Bensalem, Pennsylvania are familiar with the species of bats in the area and the recommended routes for removing them. Many pest control companies offer a free inspection. A thorough inspection is important to determine the size of the infestation, the location of the roost and the species present.
During a bat inspection, an exterminator will navigate through the property and thoroughly inspect the exterior for possible entry points. Common spaces, including garages, attics and sheds, will also be checked for signs of an infestation. These professionals may listen for squeaking sounds or observe the area for guano. During hibernation months, bat roosts may be visible if encountered in an attic, making detection rather easy for exterminators. After an inspection, pest control professionals will develop a specialized treatment plan for their proper removal.
BAT IDENTIFICATION
As with most mammals, bats can range in size, shape and color depending on the species. The little brown bat, the big brown bat and the northern long-eared bat are all common in Bucks County. Some other species can be found throughout Pennsylvania, such as the Indiana bat or the hoary bat. The big brown bat is a common house dweller in the winter as it hibernates.
The little brown bat is typically light brown, but can also take on a red or golden hue. These small bats are often no more than 4 inches in length and weigh less than 10 grams. The big brown bat resembles the little brown bat; however, it is much larger. Weighing around 15 grams and stretching around 15 inches, the big brown bat is much easier to spot. This species has long, greasy fur and is normally light or dark brown. Most female bats are slightly larger than male bats.
The northern long-eared bat gets its name from its pointy ears that reach past its nose when bent forward. These medium-sized bats are brown and do not typically exceed 10 grams in weight. They have a wingspan of around 10 inches.
Pest control specialists have a great deal of knowledge and experience with bats. Most can identify bat species with just a glance. Bat identification is important before removal to ensure the right methods are used.
IS DIY BAT REMOVAL POSSIBLE?
If a single bat has entered a building, some may attempt to remove it with a DIY method. However, if an infestation is present, DIY bat removal is not advised for various reasons. Several bat species in the Bensalem, Pennsylvania area are on the endangered species list and are protected by law. Because of their dwindling populations, bats cannot be harmed or killed during removal. This can complicate many DIY methods.
Bats have seen a drop in their population due to white-nosed syndrome. This disease is caused by a fungus and causes visible white fungal growth on bat noses and wings. Unfortunately, white-nosed syndrome has a mortality rate of over 90% for bats who have been infected. These mammals also have slow reproduction rates, leading populations to drop. To help these animals survive, a professional should assist in bat removal.
Aside from the safety of the bats, DIY bat removal can pose a risk of disease transmission to humans. Bats are one of the primary sources of rabies transmission. While most bats do not have rabies, this disease can be transmitted by the bite of an infected one. Rabies is fatal once symptoms start; it is known to be the most fatal disease to exist. To avoid death from rabies, any suspicion of rabies transmission needs to be treated. While bats are not aggressive, if they are provoked, they could react by biting. For this reason, DIY bat removal is not recommended.
Bat removal is a complex process, often including exclusion methods at certain times of the year. Eliminating a bat colony also may require specialized gear and materials, as well as close supervision to monitor that all bats have been removed. Without proper training and experience, home or property owners may worsen the situation if they attempt at-home removal options.
RECOVERING FROM BAT INFESTATIONS
The process of removing all bats from an infested building can take time. After an inspection is completed and an infestation is confirmed, an exterminator will develop a thorough plan to eliminate the bats safely. Treatment methods often include installing equipment that will allow bats to exit the roost, but not reenter. This allows all bats to safely exit without being provoked but prevents the infestation from recurring.
Pest control technicians will also work to safeguard the property from any future infestations. To do so, they will inspect for any possible entry points. If any small holes or cracks are found, they will be sealed. Common entry points include small holes in roofs and cracks in doorways or window frames.
An infestation often leaves behind dirt, germs and unsanitary conditions. Bat guano can carry dangerous bacteria and viruses that can cause serious harm to humans if inhaled or spread. To avoid illness, pest exterminators will clean and disinfect infestation areas. Because bat droppings can become airborne if not cleaned properly, a licensed exterminator in Bensalem, Pennsylvania should be hired to sanitize the area.
Bat control can be complicated and potentially dangerous involving many procedures that are governed by state law. A licensed pest management professional should always be consulted to ensure safe and proper bat removal, decontamination, and prevention.
