20578

Debunking Common Myths About Bats

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 18:48:32 GMT

Bats generally evoke a strong response from people. Some people think they are cute and cuddly, while others are scared of them. There are some common theories about bats, but are they true or just myths? Let's take a look at four and find out!

Bats are Pests

Some people think bats are pests, but actually, bats can save us from pesky bugs. Those bats you see in the neighborhood eat mosquitos and other insects, keeping your pest level low. If you have a problem with mosquitos and see bats around your house, reconsider calling a bat control service. Unless the bats are damaging your house, having them nearby might make being outdoors more comfortable.

All Bats Are Bloodsuckers

Most people have seen a vampire movie or heard the myth that vampires turn into bats and drink your blood. Movies portraying bats as bloodsuckers are not entirely false, but not entirely true. Yes, vampire bats like blood, but they are found in Central and South America and prey on outdoor mammals, not humans. Most species of bats are insectivores.

I Only See Bats at Night, so They Must Be Blind

Bats use sound navigation to find their prey, but most bats have great vision. If a species has been dwelling in caves for millions of years, their eyesight may have diminished over time. But, just because bats are most active at night doesn't mean they are blind. In fact, like most nocturnal creatures, bats simply see better in the dark.

Bats Carry Rabies

While it is true that bats can carry rabies, only a tiny section of the bat population is affected by rabies at any given time. The fact that bats don't like to bite humans means there is little chance of you getting rabies from a bat. However, if you notice a consistent population of bats around your home that causes worry, you can contact a bat control service for removal. Keep in mind that many species of animals are susceptible to rabies, including household regulars like cats and dogs.

The bottom line is that there is no need to be scared of bats. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 70% of the bat population are actually partners in agriculture because they feed on insects, keeping our crops safe. Bats that don't eat insects are likely to eat nectar, making them pollinators and seed dispersers, both of which are very important to our ecosystem.

Bats are fascinating and very adaptable to their environment. Unfortunately, that could include your home. If you find that bats have roosted in your home, contact a qualified bat control service for humane removal.

How to Squirrel-Proof Your Home

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 20:24:36 GMT

According to HavaHart, more than 100 species of tree squirrels exist, and they currently inhabit all continents, except Antarctica. When they invade homes, they can cause significant property damage and pose health risks to people. It's important to make your home squirrel-proof to prevent a squirrel invasion. Here's how to squirrel-proof your home.

1. Clear the Attic

Attics are common places for squirrels to inhabit because they are usually unoccupied and easy to access via holes and missing fascia boards. If you notice squirrels in your attics, scare them away with loud noises. You can call squirrel control if you're unable to chase them away. Block holes and cracks that may act as entry points into the attics once they're evacuated to prevent squirrels from coming back.

2. Clear the Chimney

Apart from the attics, the chimney is another place in the house that squirrels like to inhabit. They may create a nest inside the chimney if it has not been operational for long. Frighten the squirrels out of the chimney with loud noises. Use the chimney regularly to make it unfavorable for squirrels to live in it. Block both ends of the chimney with wire mesh if you're not planning to use your fireplace.

3. Dispose Garbage into Sealed Containers

Like rodents, squirrels are attracted to garbage, especially food particles. To prevent attracting squirrels into your home, take out the trash a few hours before sanitation picks it up. It would also help to regularly dispose of your garbage into sealed containers that squirrels can't open.

4. Trim Trees Near Your Roof and House

Tree limbs and branches that touch the roof or siding of the house make your home highly susceptible to squirrels. Trim them away from the house to prevent squirrels from climbing your house. According to squirrel control, it's recommended to keep tree branches and leaves at least 10 inches from your house's roofline or siding to prevent squirrels from accessing your house.

5. Seal Cracks and Small Openings in Your Home

While tiny cracks and small openings may not seem harmful to your home, they may act as entry points for squirrels. Inspect your home and block all cracks and openings. Sealing your home will keep squirrels at bay.

Squirrels can cause significant damages if they invade your home. Use these points to make your home squirrel-proof. You can call squirrel control to help you eliminate squirrels from your home if you need professional help.

5 Warning Signs You Need Bat Control

Tue, 26 Oct 2021 18:13:08 GMT

Bat control is a serious issue that people should be aware of. Bats are not just creepy creatures who lurk in the dark. They're also carriers of rabies and other diseases, which can be fatal if not treated quickly. The real problem with bats isn't so much what they do, but how many there are. There could be tens if not hundreds living inside your home or business right now. What's worse, most homeowners don't know it until the damage has been done--in some cases quite extensively. If you want to keep yourself and your family safe from harm, here are five warning signs that it might be time for bat control .

1. You Find Bat Poop on the Floor

Bat guano (poop) is very easy to spot, especially if there are tiny black stains on the floor or carpet near dark corners or where furniture meets walls. This is an important sign to look out for because bat guano in itself puts you in danger. It contains the viruses and bacteria that bats pass onto humans through bites or scratches.

2. You See Bats Flying Inside or Outside Your House

Bats will generally avoid bumping into humans and other animals while flying around homes. But if you see a few bats flying within the vicinity of your home, this may mean that there is an opening somewhere near your structure which they could use as an entrance point. Call a professional to check the area.

3. You Notice a Bad Smell

Bat feces contain a strong, unpleasant odor that could make your home uninhabitable if left unchecked. This is a huge warning sign that you need to get in touch with a professional ASAP.

4. You Hear Strange Noises

Bats are nocturnal animals, meaning that they're active while the sun is down. A good way to tell if there's a bat infestation in your home is by listening for strange sounds during the nighttime hours. If you hear bats screeching or squeaking inside your walls, ceiling, or attic, it may be time to start thinking about bat control.

5. You Find Dead Bats

If there are dead bats found anywhere near your home, this is a strong indicator that there could be an infestation in the area. Contact a professional right away to determine the extent of the problem.

According to Pest World, bats are known carriers of rabies. Rabies is an acute viral illness that attacks the central nervous system, causing inflammation of the brain and, in some cases, death, though there are less than 10% of bats carrying rabies.

This is why it's very important to get in touch with a professional when you notice any of the five warning signs above.