Bats often find their way indoors when doors or windows are accidentally left open. While some leave on their own, others may settle in attics or seldom-used spaces, gaining entry through small cracks and openings. Allowing bats to remain can lead to health risks and significant messes requiring professional cleanup.
The most reliable way to confirm a bat infestation is through a professional inspection. A bat exclusion specialist is trained to detect entry points and assess signs of bat presence. These experts not only remove bats but also clean up affected areas and implement preventative measures to keep them from returning.
During an inspection, professionals listen for distinctive high-pitched sounds and check attics or crawlspaces for bat guano, which has a strong ammonia-like smell. They also look for dark, greasy stains around exterior openings—left by bat fur—indicating frequent entry points.
Thorough inspections help determine the extent of an infestation. While guano deposits or greasy stains may provide clear signs, an expert evaluation ensures accurate identification and proper treatment.
Since certain bat species are federally protected, proper identification is crucial. Trained professionals ensure humane removal while sealing off entry points to prevent re-entry. Common home-invading species include the little brown bat, big brown bat, and Mexican free-tailed bat. Learn more about species of bats common to Pennsylvania .
Unlike rodents, bats require specialized exclusion techniques due to legal protections and ineffective DIY solutions. Many commercially available ultrasonic repellents fail to deter bats effectively. Additionally, improper handling can make infestations worse. Hiring a professional ensures a safe and compliant removal process.
Beyond removal, professional cleaning and decontamination are essential to eliminating bat guano, which can harbor harmful bacteria. Long-term infestations may necessitate insulation replacement and structural repairs. Diseases like Histoplasmosis—caused by bat droppings—pose serious respiratory risks, making expert cleanup vital.
Once the infestation is eradicated, exclusion measures and sanitation ensure the space remains bat-free. Since bat control is regulated by state laws, always consult a licensed pest management professional for safe removal, cleanup, and prevention.
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