how to bat proof your house

3 min read 12-01-2025

Bats are fascinating creatures, but having them in your house isn't ideal. Their presence can lead to droppings, noise, and potential health concerns. This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to effectively bat-proof your home, focusing on humane and legal methods. Remember, it's crucial to handle bat removal responsibly and ethically.

Understanding Bats and the Law

Before you begin, it's important to understand that many bat species are protected by law. Unauthorized removal or harming of bats is illegal in many areas. If you suspect you have bats, contact your local wildlife authorities or animal control. They can advise on the best course of action and potentially recommend licensed professionals for bat removal.

Identifying Bat Entry Points

Bats are remarkably small and can squeeze through surprisingly tiny gaps. A thorough inspection of your home's exterior is the first step. Look for:

Cracks and gaps in siding: Examine the entire exterior of your house, paying close attention to areas around windows, doors, and vents.
Openings around pipes and wires: Where pipes and wires enter your home, there are often gaps that bats can exploit.
Damaged roofing: Inspect your roof for missing shingles, loose flashing, or any other damage that creates an opening.
Chimneys: Chimneys are a common entry point for bats. Check for gaps around the chimney cap or any cracks in the mortar.
Attic vents and soffit vents: Ensure that these vents have proper mesh screens to prevent bat entry.

Pro Tip: Use a flashlight to illuminate potential entry points at dusk and dawn, when bats are most active. You might even spot them entering or exiting!

How to Bat Proof Your House: Sealing Entry Points

Once you've identified the entry points, it's time to seal them. Remember, you should only seal entry points when bats are not inside. This is usually done in the late fall or early winter when bats are hibernating or preparing to hibernate.

Materials You'll Need:

Steel wool: This is an effective material for filling small gaps and cracks. It's difficult for bats to chew through.
Caulk: Use a high-quality caulk designed for exterior use. Choose a type that's durable and weatherproof.
Mesh screens: For larger openings, install sturdy mesh screens over vents and other openings. Make sure the mesh is small enough to prevent bats from squeezing through.
Concrete patching compound: For larger cracks or holes in masonry, use a concrete patching compound to repair the damage.
Exterior-grade sealant: Seal around window frames, pipes, and other areas to prevent air leaks and bat entry.

Sealing the Gaps: A Step-by-Step Guide

Wait for the right time: As mentioned, ensure bats are not present before sealing.
Clean the area: Remove any debris or loose materials from around the openings.
Apply steel wool: Stuff steel wool firmly into small cracks and gaps.
Seal with caulk: Apply a generous bead of caulk around the steel wool and over any remaining gaps.
Install mesh screens: For larger openings, install mesh screens securely. Ensure a tight fit to prevent entry.
Patch masonry: Repair any damaged masonry using concrete patching compound.
Inspect regularly: Periodically inspect your home to ensure that the seals remain intact.

Preventing Future Bat Infestations

Once you've sealed all entry points, you can take steps to prevent future bat infestations:

Maintain your home's exterior: Regularly inspect your home's siding, roofing, and other areas for damage. Repair any damage promptly.
Keep vegetation trimmed: Overgrown vegetation can provide bats with easy access to your home. Keep bushes and trees trimmed back from your house.
Install bat houses: If you want to encourage bats in your area (and it's legal and safe to do so), consider installing a bat house away from your home. This provides them with an alternative shelter.

When to Call a Professional

If you have a large bat infestation or are unsure how to handle the situation, contact a licensed wildlife removal specialist. They have the experience and expertise to safely and humanely remove bats from your home. They can also help you identify entry points and provide advice on long-term prevention.

By following these steps, you can effectively bat-proof your house and prevent future infestations while ensuring the safety and well-being of the bats. Remember to always prioritize humane and legal methods.