It's a common experience to have a bat in your house at some point in your life. Bats are fascinating creatures that play an important role in the ecosystem, but they can be a nuisance when they enter your home. If you're wondering how to get a bat out of your house, this article will provide you with some tips and tricks to safely and effectively remove the bat.
Step 1: Identify the Bat
Before you try to remove the bat, it's important to identify the species. Most bats found in homes are either little brown bats or big brown bats. Little brown bats are small and dark brown, while big brown bats are larger and lighter in color. It's important to know the species because some bats are protected and cannot be removed without a permit.
Step 2: Isolate the Bat
Once you've identified the bat, the next step is to isolate it. Close all doors and windows in the room where the bat is located, but leave a window or door open to the outside. This will give the bat an escape route.
Step 3: Turn off the Lights
Bats are nocturnal animals and are attracted to light. Turning off the lights in the room will encourage the bat to fly towards the open window or door.
Step 4: Wear Protective Gear
Bats can carry diseases, so it's important to wear protective gear when trying to remove them. Wear gloves and a face mask to avoid contact with the bat and its droppings.
Step 5: Use a Towel or Blanket
If the bat is flying around the room, you can use a towel or blanket to catch it. Hold the towel or blanket in front of the bat and gently guide it towards the open window or door.
Step 6: Wait for the Bat to Land
If the bat is resting on a wall or ceiling, wait for it to land before trying to remove it. Bats need to take off from a flat surface, so trying to remove a bat while it's hanging from a wall or ceiling can be dangerous for both you and the bat.
Step 7: Use a Container
If the bat is still in the room after several hours, you can use a container to capture it. Place the container over the bat and slide a piece of cardboard underneath it. Gently lift the container and cardboard and release the bat outside.
Step 8: Seal Entry Points
To prevent future bat infestations, it's important to seal all entry points into your home. Bats can enter through small cracks and holes, so inspect your home for any openings and seal them with caulk or hardware cloth.
Conclusion
Removing a bat from your home can be a daunting task, but with these tips and tricks, you can safely and effectively remove the bat without harming it or yourself. Remember to wear protective gear, isolate the bat, and provide an escape route. With a little patience and persistence, you can successfully remove the bat and prevent future infestations.