Living in the Greater Boston area means sharing the neighborhoods with all sorts of creatures. While some, like birds, are generally harmless to observe, others can pose problems. One such unexpected houseguest can be bats. Having them set up home inside your walls or attic can lead to real problems.
Let’s look at some simple signs that might tell you if you have bats making themselves at home.
Why Bats Might Choose Your Home?
Bats are often drawn to attics, wall cavities, and other secluded areas because these spaces offer shelter and protection. They can squeeze through surprisingly small openings—sometimes as tiny as half an inch. Older homes with cracks, gaps in siding, or loose roofing are particularly vulnerable.
Signs of Bat Infestation
Learning the signs of a bat infestation can help you deal with the issue before it turns into something bigger and more expensive. Here are some telltale signs to watch out for:
Strange Noises at Night
One of the first indicators of a bat infestation is often auditory. You might hear faint scratching or rustling sounds coming from your attic or walls, especially around dusk or dawn when bats are most active. Unlike rodents that tend to scurry and gnaw, bat sounds are often softer—a subtle fluttering as they move around or take flight. Pay close attention during those quiet times of the day; that unusual sound could be your first clue.
Bat Droppings (Guano)
Bat droppings, also called guano, collect in piles below where bats roost. It might be near attic beams, vents, or on the floor. These look like small, dark pellets—similar to mouse droppings, but a bit longer. If they crumble easily into powder, that’s a strong sign that they’re from bats. Over time, guano can damage insulation and even grow harmful mold. That’s something to take seriously.
Stains and Musty Odors
Over time, accumulated bat guano and urine can lead to noticeable staining on walls or ceilings. You might see dark streaks or discoloration near roosting areas or entry points. Along with the stains, a distinct, musky odor similar to ammonia can develop. This smell can become quite strong, especially in enclosed spaces like attics, and is another clear indication of a bat infestation.
Spotting Them in Flight
While bats are nocturnal, you might occasionally see them flying around your home, particularly in the late evening as they emerge to feed. If you consistently notice bats entering or exiting your roofline, chimney, or other openings around your home, it’s a strong sign they’ve established a roost inside. Pay attention to specific entry and exit points; this information is important for effective removal.
Gaps or Openings Around the Roof
Bats don’t need a lot of space to squeeze inside. If you notice small openings near your roof, siding, or vents, those could be how bats are getting in. They usually pick quiet, dark places to rest during the day, like attics or wall voids, so it’s easy to miss unless you’re looking closely.
Why Opt for Professional Bat Removal?
Bats are protected under federal and state laws, and improper removal methods can be illegal and harmful to the bats. Handling bats or their droppings can also expose you to health risks.
Experienced wildlife removal teams understand bat behavior and the legal regulations surrounding their removal. They use humane and effective methods to safely remove bats from your property and implement exclusion techniques to prevent them from returning.
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, you should take action quickly. At Ultra Safe Pest Management, we know what to look for and how to safely remove bats from your home. We’ll inspect your property, explain what’s going on, and take the right steps to fix the issue. Contact us today to schedule an inspection!
