Spooky season is here! While that may mean more skeletons and ghosts are showing up as lawn decor, it also means more bats can be spotted in the area. Learn more fascinating facts about these nocturnal flyers and how proper bat control in the fall works for all.

Facts about Bats

Like many creatures, bats spend the cool autumn preparing for the cold months ahead. Not only do temperatures drop, but food becomes scarce. This effects bat behavior and makes them more visible. Here’s why:

• Mating season. Fall marks the beginning of mating season for several bat species. Although, females are able to delay fertilization until spring so the young are born when it’s warmer and more food is available.
• Hibernation prep. This month, bats feed on as many insects as possible to build up fat reserves. Since insect populations dwindle this time of year, bats increase their hunting activity. You may see them more often as they venture out just before dark to catch as many bugs as they can. They also search for suitable roosting sites, such as caves, hollow trees, and old buildings.
• Migration. Some bats move to warmer climates in search of food.
• Conservation efforts. Since this is a crucial time for bat survival, there’s more attention on monitoring populations, protecting roosting locations, and raising awareness on how helpful bats are in controlling insect populations.

Even though bats play an integral role in the environment, that doesn’t mean you want them roosting in your home. Since this is the time of year to help protect bats, it’s important to deal with them properly if you do find them in your house.

Fall Bat Control

You may not mind bat decor this season, but having them roost in your shed, garage, or attic could be a cause for concern. Use these tips to help deter them from your yard.

1. Seal entries. Small openings in the roof, eaves, windows and doors may be large enough for bats to squeeze through. Seal any cracks or gaps with caulk, foam, or mesh to block entry points. Screen vents, windows, and doors and repair any damaged siding.
2. Reduce outdoor lighting. Insects are attracted to lights around your home. Bats are attracted to insects. Limiting the light in your yard can help keep bats out of the area. If you do need light, install a motion sensor so it’s not on all the time or use a yellow or amber bulb that’s less attractive to insects.
3. Trim trees and shrubs. Bats like to roost in tall trees or dense foliage. Keep trees trim and thin out any overgrown shrubs.
4. Bat deterrents: Hang shiny objects such as aluminum foil or reflective tape to create movement and help scare bats away or deter them from roosting.
5. Remove unused structures: Consider removing or sealing off an old shed, barn, or unused outdoor structures, as these areas can serve as ideal roosting spots.
6. Eliminate water sources. Cover swimming pools, remove bird baths, maintain fountains, and improve water drainage to help make your property less attractive to insects and the bats that love them.

If you already have bats in your house, it’s important to contact a professional to help remove them. There are special devices that allow bats to leave but not reenter. These are ideal to use before a bat has babies. Trapping the young inside is not only inhumane but can be illegal in certain areas.

Contact Cardinal Pest to help with everything from bat inspection, prevention, and removal to cleaning up the space, replacing damaged insulation, and installing a bat house to give bats a proper alternative to your home.