How To Get Rid Of Bats Outside Your House

Alright, folks, let's talk bats. No, not the ones in your attic (we'll get to them later), but the ones that swoop down at dusk, giving you a mini-heart attack while you're trying to enjoy your evening barbecue. You know, the ones that make you feel like a real-life Batman, minus the cool gadgets and cape.

First Things First: Why Bats Love Your House

Now, before we start shooing these winged creatures away, let's try to understand why they're hanging around your house in the first place. Imagine your house as a giant, cozy tree. Bats love trees, right? Well, your house has got that sturdy, sheltering vibe going on, and bats, they're just looking for a place to rest their weary wings after a long night of bug-catching.

Think of it like this: You've had a long day at work, you're tired, you just want to kick back and relax. Bats are no different. They're just looking for a quiet place to chill. The only difference is, they've got a bit of a flair for the dramatic, swooping in at night like something out of a horror movie.

Now, Let's Talk About Your Attic

So, you've got bats in your attic. It's not the end of the world, but it's definitely not ideal. It's like having a roommate who never pays rent, never cleans up after themselves, and only comes out at night. Not exactly the kind of living situation you're looking for.

Bats in your attic can cause damage, they can make a mess, and they can carry diseases. But here's the thing: they're protected by law in many places. That's right, you heard it here first. Those little critters have more legal rights than your cat. So, while you might be tempted to grab your old baseball bat (pun intended) and have at it, it's best to leave them be and call in a professional.

Why You Shouldn't DIY

I know, I know, you're thinking, "But I can handle this. I've seen enough YouTube videos to know what I'm doing." Well, let me stop you right there. Bats are not your average pests. They're protected, and if you mess up, you could be facing some serious fines. Plus, bat guano (that's fancy talk for bat poop) can carry diseases like histoplasmosis, which can be pretty nasty if inhaled.

How to Get Rid of Bats

So, do yourself a favor and call in a professional. They've got the know-how, the gear, and the legal clearance to get the job done right. It might cost a bit, but it's worth it to know the job's done safely and legally.

Preventing Future Bat Infestations

Alright, so the bats are gone, your attic's clean, and you're breathing a sigh of relief. But how do you keep those pesky critters from coming back? Well, it's all about making your house less appealing to them.

First off, seal up any entry points. Bats can squeeze through tiny gaps, so make sure to check everywhere - vents, chimneys, gaps under eaves, you name it. If you're not sure where they're getting in, wait until dusk, then watch for them leaving. Once you've found their exit points, seal them up tight.

Next, make your attic less inviting. Bats love dark, quiet spaces, so make sure your attic is well-ventilated and has some light. You can also install bat cones over any remaining entry points. These are one-way devices that let bats out, but not back in.

How To Get Rid Of Bats Outside Your House at Janice Hogan blog

And Finally, Let's Talk About Those Dusk Fly-bys

So, you've got your attic sorted, but those pesky bats are still swooping around your yard at dusk. What's a homeowner to do? Well, here's a little secret: bats are actually pretty shy. They're not looking for a fight, they're just looking for food.

If you've got a lot of bugs in your yard (and let's face it, who doesn't?), bats are just trying to do their part to control the population. They're nature's little pest control specialists. So, instead of shooing them away, try to appreciate their efforts. After all, they're doing you a favor.

But if you're still not a fan of their aerial acrobatics, there are a few things you can do. Install bat houses away from your house. Bats will often prefer to roost in these specially designed houses rather than your attic. You can also try planting bat-friendly plants around your yard. Bats love flowers like evening primrose and night-blooming water lilies, which attract the insects they feed on.

And there you have it, folks. Bats might seem like a nuisance, but they're actually pretty amazing creatures. They're nature's little recyclers, eating bugs and spreading seeds. So, the next time you see one swooping by, try to appreciate their unique charm. Just maybe not too close to your barbecue.