Are northern long-eared bats in Langhorne a critical species or a threat to human health? The reality is that these creatures are both.
As long as northern long-eared bats stay outdoors and avoid people, there is no reason to fear them. In fact, they are a fundamental part of the ecosystem.
However, when bats come into man-made structures, major problems ensue. The building may suffer massive damage. As the infestation goes on, the damage gets worse. At the same time, the presence of the northern long-eared bat and its waste products expose any people in the building to illnesses that could prove life-threatening.
Accordingly, it is easy to see that northern long-eared bats are a beneficial species as long as they roost in appropriate places. A bat box, tree or cave is acceptable, but the animals will roost in attics, chimneys and other portions of buildings if they are given an opportunity.
The first line of defense to a northern long-eared bat infestation is blocking any entrances that the animals might use to come indoors. Almost any flaw in a building's exterior can serve as an entrance point as the bats are small and do not need a large opening. This may mean that it is difficult for people to see all of the potential vulnerabilities.
If bats are already indoors, then it is too late to block entrances, and other treatment methods must be utilized. Northern long-eared bats are a protected species because of the vital role they play in the ecosystem. It is vital that people act in accordance with the law when dealing with such an infestation.
This is where the services of a licensed pest management company are essential. With their knowledge, training and experience, these professionals are prepared to install bat exclusion equipment that does not harm the animals. Instead, it enables them to leave through their usual access point, but prevents them from returning.
Using these means, it is possible to end northern long-eared bat infestations.
WHAT DO
LONG-EARED
BATS LOOK LIKE?
At a body length of approximately three inches and a wingspan of between nine and ten inches, the northern long-eared bat is considered medium sized. The stomach is covered in tawny fur while the back features dark brown fur. When compared to members of other bat species, it becomes clear that this bat's ears are much longer, which is how they received their common name.
WHAT DO
LONG-EARED
BATS EAT?
Northern long-eared bats are instrumental when it comes to controlling insect populations during the spring, summer and fall. People can more easily enjoy outdoor activities thanks to this bat's appetite for leafhoppers, beetles, caddisflies, mosquitoes, gnats and other pests. In general, northern long-eared bats are not attracted to foods that are intended to be eaten by people or pets, meaning that there is little risk for contamination.
WHERE DO
LONG-EARED
BATS LIVE?
Populations of northern long-eared bats exist across much of North America. In the winter, they hibernate and may be more difficult to spot. Hibernation occurs in places such as caves and abandoned mines as long as conditions are appropriate. Northern long-eared bats look for hibernation roosts that offer a steady, predictable temperature and not too much wind. Occasionally, the bats will spend the winter in a man-made structure, such as an attic or chimney.
When northern long-eared bats find an appropriate place to hibernate, they tend to do so in large groups. As the weather begins to get warmer in the spring, the bats get more active. This is when they will return to the daytime and nighttime roosts that they used the previous year. It is not as common for the bats in Langhorne to roost in such large groups outside of the winter season. Still, it is common to see more than one northern long-eared bat using the same attic, fireplace or chimney as a daytime or nighttime roost. A more appropriate roosting spot is a tree, and the bats will burrow beneath the outer layer of the bark for this purpose.
DAMAGE CAUSED BY
LONG-EARED
BATS
A vent or a duct that is not properly covered is all that a northern long-eared bat needs to get indoors. Of course, it will also take advantage of any crack or hole in a building's exterior if it means an opportunity to roost indoors. With their small size, superior agility and sharp teeth and claws, it generally is possible for northern long-eared bats to enter all but the most well-sealed buildings.
This activity can cause considerable damage to the opening that the bats are using. Stains are common, and these can be incredibly difficult to remove. Moreover, the opening may become larger and rougher, allowing in the elements as well as other pests.
Any interior places, like attics and wall voids, in which the bats roost will quickly become contaminated. The northern long-eared bats have incredibly corrosive waste products that are capable of eating through all of the most common building materials. At the same time, insulation can be damaged beyond recovery. When bat infestations are ignored, the damage can become severe and may affect aspects of the building's structural integrity.
ARE
LONG-EARED
BATS AGGRESSIVE?
This is generally a peaceful species that is focused solely on life-sustaining behavior such as foraging for food and raising young. When people and bats have up-close encounters, both parties tend to panic. This may make the bat's behavior appear aggressive, but the reality is that the animal probably is more afraid than anything else.
Outdoor encounters tend to be fleeting, but if a bat accidentally enters an already occupied room, then it is wise for people to stay calm and open up a few windows to make it easier for the bat to find its way outdoors again.
DO
LONG-EARED
BATS CARRY DISEASE?
It is possible for this species to carry rabies, so whenever people and bats interact, it is always a good idea to get tested by a doctor. However, the more frequent threat that is posed by an infestation of northern long-eared bats is Histoplasmosis.
This lung condition may arise in people who live or work in infested buildings. Histoplasmosis may be present in bat waste products. People who inhale these contaminants may soon begin to show signs of illness. Early treatment is recommended to prevent complications.
HOW TO DETECT
LONG-EARED
BATS
Signs of a northern long-eared bat infestation include:
• Bats may be heard squeaking and rustling behind walls Mounds of waste products may be discovered in places where bats are roosting • Stains may be seen on the building's exterior, including on windows and around access points • Unusual odors may be detected within the building
HOW TO PREVENT
LONG-EARED
BATS
To help prevent northern long-eared bat issues the following steps should be taken:
• Keep screens on any windows and doors that may be opened • Install bat houses on poles or trees in the landscaping • Use wire mesh to block furnace vents • Find ways to seal holes, vents and ducts • Install chimney caps • Put yellow sodium bulbs in outdoor lighting • Place mothballs in any area in which bats might roost
HOW TO TREAT FOR BATS
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.
