Bats are nocturnal mammals that can be found in different parts of the world, and they play a significant role in the ecosystem. However, when they infest barns, it can cause damage and pose health risks to humans and livestock. Therefore, it is crucial to get rid of them humanely and in an ecologically responsible way. This guide will provide an overview of bat species commonly found in barns, their ecological importance, identifying signs of bat infestation, smart and humane methods for getting rid of bats, preventing future bat infestations, when to hire a professional, and the importance of using humane and ecologically responsible methods.
Understanding Bats and their Role in the Ecosystem
Bats are essential members of the ecosystem and play a vital role in controlling pests, pollination, and seed dispersal. There are over 1,400 bat species worldwide, and some of the common species found in barns include:
- Little brown bat
- Big brown bat
- Mexican free-tailed bat
- Eastern red bat
- Hoary bat
Bats’ Ecological Importance
Bats play a vital role in the ecosystem and are beneficial to humans in many ways, including:
Pest Control
Bats are natural pest controllers and can eat up to their body weight in insects every night. This means that they can help reduce the population of insects that damage crops and cause economic losses to farmers.
Pollination
Some bat species are pollinators, and they help pollinate plants, including agave and bananas.
Seed Dispersal
Bats also play an important role in seed dispersal, which helps to maintain plant diversity.
Legal Protections for Bats and Consequences of Harming Them
In many parts of the world, bats are protected by law, and it is illegal to harm or kill them. If someone is found guilty of harming or killing bats, they may face heavy fines and imprisonment. Therefore, it is crucial to use humane methods to get rid of bats in barns.
Identifying Signs of Bat Infestation
Bats are nocturnal creatures, and they are most active at night. Therefore, it may be challenging to spot them during the day. However, there are several signs that can indicate a bat infestation in a barn.
Physical Signs
- Bat droppings (guano): Bat droppings can accumulate in piles and have a strong, musty odor. They may also look like small, dark pellets and can be found on the ground or on surfaces such as rafters or walls.
- Noise and movement: Bats make chirping or squeaking sounds, which may be audible at night. They also fly in and out of the barn and can be seen in the sky.
- Damage to building materials: Bats may scratch and gnaw at building materials, including wood and insulation.
Health Risks Associated with Bat Infestations
Bats can carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans and livestock. The two main diseases associated with bat infestations are:
Histoplasmosis
Histoplasmosis is a respiratory disease caused by inhaling spores of a fungus found in bat guano. The disease can cause flu-like symptoms, including fever, cough, and chest pain. In severe cases, it can lead to lung and heart damage.
Rabies
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system and is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals. Bats are one of the animals that can carry rabies, and if they bite a human or animal, it can be fatal.
Smart and Humane Methods for Getting Rid of Bats
It is important to get rid of bats in a way that is humane and ecologically responsible. Here are some smart and humane methods for getting rid of bats:
Exclusion
Exclusion involves identifying and sealing entry points that bats use to enter and exit the barn. The following steps should be taken to ensure that exclusion is done effectively:
Identifying and Sealing Entry Points
- Inspect the barn for gaps and cracks in the roof, walls, and foundation.
- Seal all gaps and cracks with caulk or weather stripping.
- Cover all vents with mesh screens.
Installing One-Way Exclusion Devices
- Install one-way exclusion devices, such as bat cones, over entry points. These devices allow bats to exit the barn but prevent them from re-entering.
- Leave the exclusion devices in place for at least a week to ensure that all bats have left the barn.
Proper Timing to Avoid Trapping Young Bats
- Avoid exclusion during the bat breeding season, which typically runs from April to August, to avoid trapping young bats in the barn.
Modification of Roosting Sites
Modifying roosting sites involves changing the interior temperature and lighting conditions of the barn to make it less attractive to bats. The following steps should be taken:
Changing Interior Temperature and Lighting Conditions
- Increase the temperature in the barn to above 90°F for several days to make it uncomfortable for bats.
- Install bright lights in the barn to make it less attractive to bats.
Installing Deterrents like Bird Netting or Shiny Objects
- Install bird netting or other deterrents over areas where bats roost to prevent them from landing and roosting.
- Hang shiny objects such as aluminum foil or reflective tape in the barn to discourage bats from roosting.
Encouraging Alternative Roosting Locations
Providing alternative roosting locations for bats can help to encourage them to leave the barn. The following steps should be taken:
Providing Bat Houses
- Install bat houses near the barn to provide alternative roosting locations for bats.
- Bat houses should be installed in areas that receive plenty of sunlight and should be at least 10 feet off the ground.
Attracting Bats to Other Natural Habitats
- Planting vegetation that attracts insects, such as flowers and herbs, encourages bats to forage in other areas.
- Creating or preserving natural habitats, such as forests or wetlands, where bats can roost and forage.
Preventing Future Bat Infestations
Preventing future bat infestations involves regular inspection and maintenance of barn structures, sealing potential entry points, and landscaping and habitat management.
Regular Inspection and Maintenance of Barn Structures
- Regularly inspect the barn for gaps and cracks in the roof, walls, and foundation.
- Replace any damaged or rotten wood.
- Keep the barn clean and free of clutter.
Sealing Potential Entry Points
- Seal all gaps and cracks with caulk or weather stripping.
- Cover all vents with mesh screens.
Landscaping and Habitat Management
- Plant vegetation that attracts insects away from the barn.
- Create or preserve natural habitats, such as forests or wetlands, where bats can roost and forage.
When to Hire a Professional
In some cases, it may be necessary to hire a professional to get rid of bats. The following factors should be considered when deciding whether to hire a professional:
Assessing the Severity of the Infestation
- If the infestation is severe, it may be difficult to get rid of bats using humane and ecologically responsible methods.
Navigating Legal Protections and Permits
- If bats are protected by law in your area, you may need a permit to remove them.
Ensuring Safe and Effective Bat Removal
- Removing bats can be dangerous, especially if the bats are carrying diseases like rabies.
- A professional can ensure that bats are removed safely and effectively using humane and ecologically responsible methods.
Conclusion
Bats are important members of the ecosystem, but when they infest barns, it can cause damage and pose health risks to humans and livestock. It is crucial to get rid of them humanely and in an ecologically responsible way. Smart and humane methods for getting rid of bats include exclusion, modification of roosting sites, and encouraging alternative roosting locations. Preventing future bat infestations involves regular inspection and maintenance of barn structures, sealing potential entry points, and landscaping and habitat management. In some cases, it may be necessary to hire a professional to get rid of bats safely and effectively. It is essential to use humane and ecologically responsible methods when getting rid of bats in barns to ensure the conservation of these important animals.
