Did you know that Big Brown Bats can eat thousands of insects every night? That’s great for the environment, but not so great when they move into your attic. If you’ve noticed droppings, strange noises, or a strong ammonia-like smell in your home, you might have a bat problem. Figuring out how they’re getting in, understanding the risks they bring, and knowing why professional bat removal is your best bet will help you stop the issue before it gets worse.
What Are Big Brown Bats?
Big Brown Bats (Eptesicus fuscus) are one of the most common bat species in North America, and they can be found right here in Central Florida. They’re medium-sized, with a wingspan of 11 to 13 inches, and weigh about half an ounce. Their fur is dark brown, their wings are black, and they have rounded ears. Since they’re nocturnal, you probably won’t see them during the day, but at night, they’re busy feasting on beetles, moths, and other flying insects.
These bats are incredibly adaptable. While they prefer natural roosting sites like trees and caves, they’re just as comfortable settling into attics, barns, and even behind loose siding. Unfortunately, their ability to make themselves at home in human structures often leads to uninvited guests in attics and walls.
How Big Brown Bats Get Into Homes
If you’re wondering how bats are sneaking into your house, you’re not alone. They’re experts at finding even the tiniest gaps to squeeze through. Here are some of their favorite ways to get inside:
1. Roofline Gaps
It only takes a dime-sized gap for a bat to slip through. Gaps where the roof meets the walls or chimney can widen over time, giving bats easy access. These openings might seem insignificant at first, but once a bat finds its way in, more will follow. Regular roof inspections can help catch these trouble spots before they turn into a bigger issue.
2. Vents and Chimneys
Attic vents and open chimneys provide the perfect entrance for bats. These spaces are dark, warm, and sheltered, making them an ideal roosting spot. Many homeowners don’t realize they have bats in their vents or chimney until they hear rustling noises or notice a strong odor. Installing chimney caps and sturdy vent covers is a simple fix that can keep bats and other critters out.
3. Cracks in Walls and Siding
Bats don’t just rely on roofs and chimneys to get inside. Even small cracks in walls, siding, or gaps between bricks can be enough for them to gain entry. Over time, these cracks may widen, giving bats a hidden passage straight into attic spaces or inside walls. Sealing these gaps with durable, weatherproof materials can prevent unwanted visitors.
4. Loose Fascia Boards
Fascia boards that aren’t securely attached create easy entry points for bats. Because these boards are often tucked under roof edges, bats can slip in unnoticed. Strong winds, storms, or general wear and tear can loosen them over time, making it even easier for bats to move in. Checking and securing these boards regularly can help keep your attic off-limits to wildlife.
Spotting a bat infestation early can save you time, money, and stress. Here’s what to watch for:
Signs of a Big Brown Bat Infestation
Not sure if you have a bat problem? Here are some signs to look for:
1. Bat Droppings (Guano)
Guano looks like tiny, dark pellets and usually piles up near roosting areas, such as attics or along exterior walls. If you see small droppings accumulating in specific spots, bats are likely nearby. Over time, guano can create a strong odor and attract other pests like cockroaches, making the problem even worse.
2. Noises in Walls or Attics
Bats aren’t exactly quiet. If you hear scratching, squeaking, or fluttering sounds—especially around dusk or dawn—you might have a bat infestation. Unlike rodents, bats make high-pitched chirps and clicking sounds, which become more noticeable as the colony grows.
3. Strong Ammonia Odor
Bat urine has a sharp, ammonia-like smell that gets stronger over time. If an infestation has been there for a while, the odor may seep into your home, especially in enclosed spaces like attics and walls. Poor ventilation can make the smell even worse, making it hard to ignore.
4. Stains Around Entry Points
Bats leave greasy, dark stains around the cracks and crevices they use to get in and out. These marks come from the oils in their fur and can be a clear sign of repeated bat activity. If you spot these stains, it’s time to investigate further.
5. Sightings at Sunset
Seeing bats flying near your home around dusk? That’s a big clue that they could be roosting somewhere on your property. If you consistently notice them flying out of the same spot, they’ve likely found a way inside.
If any of these signs sound familiar, it’s time to consider the risks. A bat infestation isn’t just inconvenient—it can lead to real damage and health hazards.
Risks of Big Brown Bats in Your Home
Bats aren’t just a nuisance—they can cause real problems for your home and health:
1. Health Hazards
Bats can carry rabies, though transmission to humans is rare. A bigger concern is histoplasmosis, a lung infection caused by inhaling spores from bat guano. If bat droppings build up in your attic, the risk of airborne spores increases, making cleanup a serious health concern.
2. Structural Damage
Bat droppings and urine are highly corrosive. Over time, they can eat away at insulation, drywall, wood, and even electrical wiring. Left unchecked, the damage can lead to costly repairs, from replacing insulation to addressing mold growth caused by excess moisture.
3. Parasites and Pests
Bats don’t come alone—they often bring mites, fleas, and bat bugs (similar to bed bugs) with them. Even after the bats are gone, these pests can linger, creating another infestation that needs to be dealt with.
Taking action sooner rather than later can help prevent serious damage. Luckily, there’s a proven way to get rid of bats for good.
How Wildout Animal and Pest Removal Can Help
Dealing with a bat problem? We’ve got you covered. Here’s how our team can help:
1. Detailed Inspection
We start with a full inspection of your home, identifying bat entry points and roosting areas. Our team looks for signs of infestation and assesses the extent of the problem before creating a customized removal plan.
2. Humane Bat Removal
Instead of harming the bats, we use exclusion devices that allow them to exit but block re-entry. This method ensures that bats leave without being trapped inside. Our approach complies with Florida’s wildlife laws, so you can be sure the removal is done the right way.
3. Sealing Entry Points
Once the bats are out, we seal all potential entry points using durable materials. This step prevents new bats from moving in and protects your home from future infestations.
4. Cleanup and Sanitation
Bat guano isn’t something you want sitting around. Our team removes droppings, sanitizes affected areas, and eliminates odors. In severe cases, we also recommend insulation replacement to restore a clean and safe environment.
5. Preventative Measures
Keeping bats out for good requires ongoing prevention. We offer follow-up inspections and maintenance to ensure your home remains bat-free, giving you peace of mind year-round.
Taking care of the problem now means you won’t have to deal with future infestations. With the right removal and prevention plan, you can keep bats out.
Conclusion
Big Brown Bats play an important role in Florida’s ecosystem, but they don’t belong in your home. A bat infestation can lead to health risks, property damage, and long-term headaches if left untreated. If you suspect bats are roosting in your attic, reach out to Wildout Animal and Pest Removal today. We’ll take care of the problem quickly and humanely so you can enjoy a bat-free home.
Wildout Animal and Pest Removal
Lakeland
863-315-WILD (315-9453)
Orlando
407-465-WILD (465-9453)
Tampa
813-WILDOUT (945-3688)
Home