Like raccoons or squirrels, bats can also infest your attic and cause problems for you and your family. Bats can carry diseases that may be contracted by humans and other animals, making these animals hazardous to both family and pets. It will require professional pest control to remove them properly. If you notice the following signs around your home you may have a bat infestation:
- Bat Sighting
Bats are nocturnal creatures, and if any are roosting in your attic, you are likely to see them flying out at sundown. At around that time, bats tend to leave the places where they nest. Spotting bats (especially if you catch them entering or leaving your home) will confirm that bats are nesting indoors.
- Scratching in the Walls
Scratching sounds in the walls and attic can point toward a mouse infestation, but it may also be due to bats. This sound can also indicate bats are burrowing into insulation to find a warm place to rest during the day. The sound is also particularly audible before dawn when bats return to their nests.
- Chirping Sounds
Bats make chirping or squeaking noises to communicate, navigate, and find food. It’s easy to mistake the sounds of bats for baby birds or mice.
- Bat Droppings
Bat droppings are a solid indicator of an infestation. If you find bat droppings in your attic, take it as confirmation that bats are nesting there. Bats are also prone to defecating before and after take off, so it is easy to find accumulations of droppings around your home. These sites mark where the bats enter and exit your home, giving you an idea of entry points.
- Ammonia Odour
Bat droppings and urine have a distinct ammonia smell, so even if you don’t see them, you can still smell them. Odours and discolouration can signify other problems like mice infestation or leaking pipes, so consult a pest control professional to identify the smell’s direct cause.
- Rub Marks
Bats have greasy, oily fur that collects dirt during the night. When they enter or exit your house, they leave greasy smudges around the opening to the home. It’s important to sterilize these areas after bat removal to prevent the spread of any disease they may have been carrying.
If you think bats (or any other pests) have entered your house, it is important to call professionals right away before the infestation can escalate further. Pro-Pest provides long-lasting solutions and a professional approach to all your pest-related troubles. Contact us at (416) 487-4179 to get started.
