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BATS
Bats may enter attics of buildings by squeezing through
cracks as narrow as 1/4 inch and create a nuisance by making squeaking, scratching,
scrambling, and crawling sounds. They deposit odorous feces and urine which
may stain the ceiling. They can transmit rabies to humans but occurrences
have been greatly exaggerated. Bat ectoparasites including ticks, fleas,
and mites rarely bite humans but bat bedbugs occasionally get into bedding.
The best long term solution to problems with bats in the attic is exclusion.
Bats can be excluded by plugging all holes with caulking, flashing, screen, fiberglass
insulation, or stainless steel wool. Before attempting bat-proofing, make
sure that all bats are out of the building. If bats are present, leave one
small hole open and plug it a few hours after dark after all bats have left for
the evening. If all bats have not left the attic or if you are not certain
if all bats have left, a commercial bat excluder (a funnel valve) can be placed
over the hole to allow exit but prevent reentry.
Bats can be encouraged
to leave attics by placing 5 pounds of naphthalene crystals or flakes per 2,000
cubic feet of area. Place these materials in stockings or cloth so that
they can be removed after the bats leave. Bright lights placed in the attic also
encourage bats to leave. Ultrasonic sound devices do not appear effective
in frightening away bats. No fumigants or toxicants are registered for use
by the general public to control bats.
Bat ectoparasites can be
controlled in houses with a fumigant after bats have left the building.
Respirators should be worn when removing bat guano to avoid contracting histoplasmosis.
If a person has been bitten by a bat, the bat should be captured without
damaging the head. The local health department should be contacted to have
the bat examined for rabies. If the bat is confirmed rabid, the patient
must undergo rabies post-exposure vaccination.
Additional information:
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