Spring is a prime season for Bats
With the first warmer days of Spring, we begin to see bats moving back to familiar roosts or finding new ones. Not all bats migrate – some hibernate, and some remain year-round. While bats serve an important role in the ecosystem, most homeowners would prefer not to share their homes with a colony of bats.
Ecocentric Wildlife Solutions LLC can evict the bats from your home and prevent them from re-entering.
Bat Roost
Bats gather in one location called a Roost.
For those who would like to provide an alternative roost for their resident bat colony, we can provide a bat box or bat house to place in your yard. The bats will continue to provide their insect-eating services while occupying their own quarters.
Humane Bat Exclusion in North Carolina: A Step-by-Step Guide
Evicting bats from your home should always prioritize their safety and well-being. Here’s how we do it effectively and responsibly in North Carolina
Timing is Key
Ideal Eviction Windows
The best times to evict bats are:
- Early Spring: Before young bats (pups) learn to fly.
- Fall: After pups can fly, but before colder temperatures arrive.
Maternity Season Restrictions
Evicting bats during maternity season (April 15 – August 15) requires a permit due to legal protections for mothers and their young.
Sealing Entry Points: A Critical First Step
We thoroughly seal all potential bat entry points using:
- Caulk
- Steel Wool
- Hardware Cloth
- Door Draft Guards
Pay particular attention to gaps around windows, doors, and utility lines.
One-Way Exclusion Devices: The Humane Exit Strategy
Once entry points are sealed, install one-way exclusion devices over the remaining openings. This allows bats to leave but prevents them from returning. Options include:
- DIY Valves: Made from cleaned plastic pipes, caulk tubes, or lightweight plastic netting with small mesh.
- Commercial Valves: Designed specifically for bat exclusion.
Vertical Tube Excluders
For larger holes, install vertical plastic tubes with mesh funnels to guide bats towards the exit.
Monitoring Period
Leave exclusion devices in place for 5-7 nights to ensure all bats have left.
Additional Encouragement: Guiding Bats Out
To further assist bats in finding their way out:
- Open Windows and Doors: In the evenings, create as many open exits as possible.
- Turn Off Lights: Indoor lights can disorient bats.
- Avoid Disturbing Active Bats: If you see a bat flying, don’t try to catch or interact with it.
Important Note: This guide provides general information. For severe bat infestations or concerns about potential health risks, it’s recommended to consult with a professional wildlife removal service.
