General description of bats

Bats, belonging to the order Chiroptera , are the only mammals capable of true sustained flight. They are found in almost every type of environment around the world, except the coldest areas, such as the polar regions. The diversity of species is impressive: with over 1,400 species, bats represent about 20% of existing mammals. They vary considerably in size, from the tiny bumblebee bat (about 3 cm in length) to the large golden flying fox, or flying fox, which can reach a wingspan of almost 1.7 metres.

Bats are generally divided into two major subgroups: microbats and megabats . Microbats, or microbats, feed primarily on insects and use echolocation, a sonar navigation system, to detect prey at night. Megabats, also known as fruit bats, feed primarily on fruit or nectar and rely more on their vision to navigate, although some species can also echolocate.

In addition to their role in controlling pest populations, bats contribute to pollination and seed dispersal, helping to maintain ecosystem diversity, particularly in tropical forests where many plants rely exclusively on them for reproduction. Although often misunderstood, bats play a crucial ecological role and provide many benefits to the environments they inhabit.

How to Keep Bats Away Without Harming Them

Bats, while beneficial to the ecosystem by controlling insect populations, can quickly become undesirable when they find refuge in our buildings. In Canada, it is illegal to kill them because of their important environmental role and their legal protection. However, there are simple methods to encourage them to leave your home without harming them, as well as preventative solutions to prevent their return.

Why do bats move into houses?

Bats seek out dark, quiet, and safe places to shelter, especially during breeding and hibernation periods. Attics, chimneys, and cracks in walls are ideal places for them. They are mainly attracted to unsealed openings in building structures.

Methods to get them out

It is possible to manage a bat infestation in a non-invasive way. One of the most effective techniques is exclusion, which allows bats to leave their shelter without being able to return. This process involves installing exclusion cones or similar devices at the entry points used by bats. In this way, the bats will exit through the opening of the cone, not realizing that it is only one-way. Once outside, they will not be able to re-enter. 

Preventive solutions

Once bats have left the premises, it is essential to block all potential entry points. Sealing cracks and openings in walls, roofs or around windows is a key method of preventing their return. It is also recommended to install screens on chimneys and keep attics well lit and ventilated, as these animals prefer dark places.

Ultrasonic devices can also be useful in discouraging bats from returning. These devices emit sounds that are imperceptible to humans but uncomfortable for bats, thus causing them to leave the area.

Protect your home sustainably

Finally, after you have solved a bat problem, it is a good idea to inspect your home regularly to make sure new openings are not forming. By taking these precautions, you can protect your home without causing harm to these fascinating creatures.

Although the use of certain products is necessary for the exclusion and prevention process, the important thing is to act respecting nature and current legislation. To learn more about exclusion methods and prevention devices, you can consult the resources available on our website.

The dangers and damage caused by bats

Although bats play an important ecological role by controlling insect populations and pollinating certain plants, their presence in homes can pose health risks and property problems. Here are the main hazards associated with bats:

Health risks

Bats carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans, including rabies and histoplasmosis. Rabies, although rare, can be transmitted through a bite or through contact with a bat's saliva on an open cut. Histoplasmosis, a respiratory infection, is caused by fungal spores found in bat droppings (guano). This fungus thrives in accumulations of guano, particularly in confined spaces such as attics, and can cause serious respiratory problems when inhaled.

Material damage

In addition to the health risks, bats can cause significant damage to buildings. Their guano is highly corrosive and, if left uncleaned, can damage wood structures and insulation, leading to costly repairs. Additionally, bats often leave unpleasant stains and odors, especially if they take up residence in large numbers in an attic or chimney.

Noise pollution and other inconveniences

Since bats are active at night, they can cause noise disturbances (scratching, wing flapping) that disrupt residents' sleep. They can also contaminate outdoor water sources by leaving debris or droppings, which poses a risk of spreading disease.

In the event of an infestation, it is recommended to contact a professional for safe removal, as bats are often protected by law due to their ecological importance.

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