Bats have a certain reputation. They are the only flying mammal and can be found all over the world, including Ontario. Small insectivores, they are actually an integral part of our ecosystem and a protected species in Canada. Despite their small size, they can be quite the nuisance in an attic or other parts of your home and removing them safely and humanely is no small task.
Here are the facts about bats and their removal from the trained specialists at Raider Wildlife Control:
The Dangers of Bats in Your Home
Don’t worry, the myth is wrong—bats will not seek out human hair for nesting. But they can bite when cornered or startled and, like all mammals, carry a risk of rabies. Bats can also be a danger due to their droppings. Known as guano, bat droppings contain a fungus which is extremely harmful to humans. When accidentally digested, or even inhaled, this fungus can cause an illness called histoplasmosis. The most common symptoms of histoplasmosis are:
- Fever
- Headaches
- Muscle pains
- Cough and chest pain
While these are easily confused with flu-like symptoms, in the elderly or in people with weakened immune systems, histoplasmosis can be fatal.
Bats are also the carriers of their very own species of bed bug type insects, known as bat bugs. Bat bugs primarily feed on bats, but once introduced to a home, can transfer to any other mammal, including humans. Almost impossible to see, bat bugs can become their own problem for homeowners and residents.
Like all pests, the best way to live without them is through prevention. Preventing bat nesting is quite difficult, however. They find their way into homes most often through the roof, and can fit through smaller spaces than you might imagine. Most people are not aware of the various spots around their home that are vulnerable to bats. Once they have settled in your home, it is very difficult to remove them safely and humanely without expert help. As they are a protected species throughout Canada, killing a bat is an offense and carries a fine of up to $10,000 per individual animal harmed.
To ensure the safety of you and your home, as well as the humane and lawful control of the bat problem, we make sure to remove the entire bat colony, leaving no breeding pairs or babies behind.
If you have a bat problem in the Greater Toronto Area, Raider Wildlife Control will take pride in assisting you in the humane and safe removal of the bat colony, or any other pest concerns you may have. Please get in touch with our specialists today.
