Bats are not cute or cuddly. If you don't like them, we get it. It's instinctive to dislike a scary-looking animal that flies around in the dark. But the truth is, there are some valid reasons why we should be glad they're around. Bats are a keystone species. Without them, important ecosystems would be vulnerable to collapse. They are essential pollinators, provide food for other wildlife, and play a significant part in pest control. With insect populations on the rise, we need all the help we can get, even if that help swoops in on leathery wings.
Bats, as beneficial as they may be, also cause numerous problems for homeowners. There's a reason why some homeowners choose to erect bat boxes in their yards. Did you know that a single one can eat 1,000 mosquitoes in just one hour? That said, there are also reasons this animal has long been villainized.
Luckily, there are no vampire bats in Missouri to worry about. There are 14 species here, and they are insect eaters. Just 3 of them are known to invade homes and buildings, the Little Brown, Big Brown, and Evening.
Bats are drawn to homes, searching for a dark, quiet, and comfortable place to roost. They prefer similar temperatures as humans, which is why they are often found in attics and inside walls. Once inside, they make a huge mess. They tear insulation, damage wires, and, worst of all, their waste, guano, is incredibly unsanitary and corrosive. It eats through paint, wood, metal, and stone. Guano is also loaded with harmful diseases, some of which may become airborne, like histoplasmosis. They are also known carriers of rabies. You don't have to enter the attic to get sick because it circulates through your air vents.
Signs of an infestation include droppings, stains on your ceilings, the smell of ammonia, and scratching noises. You might even see some or have one find its way into your living space. Even if you spot just one, it could mean a colony is nearby.
You should not attempt to capture one yourself. They are protected by law, and killing one, even accidentally, comes with a hefty fine. Your best move is to seek the services of an expert to remove them.
No one is more skilled at dealing with a bat issue than SEMO Wildlife Control. We use humane, non-lethal techniques to end an infestation effectively. Our methods include using bat valves and a one-way door that allows them to leave but prevents them from getting back in.
Our technicians are also remediation experts. We offer
cleanup and repairs to help reverse the damage and remove the hazards that often come in the wake of an infestation. We also provide
exclusion to help prevent them from returning in the future. We'll cover you with a comprehensive and customized solution to meet your needs.
All Rights Reserved | SEMO Wildlife Control