The fear of bats is not a recent issue; tales associating the creatures with evil deeds go back thousands of years and span across the globe. Although most people have accepted that they are not vampires in disguise, many still fear them, and that can ramp up quickly when a bat enters your house or business.

Bats are extremely interesting creatures. There are over 1,400 species worldwide, 25 of which are found in California. The world’s only flying mammal seems to have an affinity for attics, basements, closets, or other areas that appeal to their nocturnal nature. 

They tend to make their way in accidentally through open doors or windows, vents, chimneys, or small holes. Bats can squeeze through holes the diameter of just a dime, so any tiny gaps in screening, siding, or anywhere else can be a problem.

It can be dangerous trying to get a bat out of your house or business without the help of an expert. One issue is that the creatures are incredibly quick, making them tough to catch. Some species can reach flying speeds of over 100 miles per hour. Exposure to the animal is a health and safety risk. Bats are one of the biggest carriers of rabies in the U.S. and are the leading cause of rabies deaths in America. Their bites and scratches can be small, to the point where you may not even notice them in the frenzy of trying to catch one, allowing the disease to spread undetected at first. Exposure can happen even if they don’t attack; their urine, feces, or saliva can spell trouble.

Although there’s plenty to be concerned about when a bat enters your home or business, these animals do have plenty they contribute, and they are certainly not evil. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service even labeled bats “one of the most important misunderstood animals.” They pollinate plants by dispersing seeds from the fruit they eat, and over 300 different plant species depend on them. They’re also the sole pollinator for the agave plant. They prevent about $1 billion yearly in crop damage for U.S. corn crops alone and $3.7 billion for all agricultural production because of the number of insects they eat.  

They should be protected whenever possible. If you have a bat problem, you should contract with a company that understands the importance of the animal and works to remove them with the utmost care.

Gold Country Wildlife Control is located within California’s Northeastern foothills. This area is full of natural beauty, with limitless opportunities to see fantastic plants and animals, including bats. We respect those animals and don’t wish harm upon them. That’s why we’re so committed to humane removal methods. It’s also why we focus so intently on exclusion: keeping wildlife and humans separate means neither party is putting the other at risk. We’re extremely thorough and are committed to the well-being of your family or business because we understand how important it is to keep wildlife away from your property and within their natural habitats. Contact us today for more information.