Bats are a pest you want to stay in the great outdoors. They can cause significant damage throughout your home as they nest, and they carry a range of potentially deadly diseases like rabies. Know the signs of an infestation so you can schedule bat removal before they become a danger to your home and family.

Red Flags That It’s Time for Bat Removal

1. Droppings

Bat droppings, also known as guano, will appear in piles under any areas where bats roost. Guano is black and shiny when seen in the light. The long pellets are small and typically gathered in larger piles. The most likely roosting spots will be in your attic, under your eaves, or behind shutters. Do not try to clean up these droppings yourself before calling for bat removal — when the guano is disturbed, it can release harmful fungal sports called histoplasmosis. This fungus can cause health complications in pets and people when inhaled.

2. Noises

Bats make high-pitched chirping and squealing noises to communicate with one another. Because they are nocturnal, these sounds may disrupt your sleep. They may also make scratching noises on your walls and in your attic as they move around.

3. Ammonia Smells

In addition to their guano, bats will urinate in and around your home. Their urine is high in ammonia, so it will emit a strong smell similar to that of a cat’s litter box. You may even see the white trails of urine along your walls and on the ground.

The team at 24-7 Animal & Pest Control is here to protect your home from all unwanted visitors in the Greater St. Louis, MO, area. Their wildlife control experts offer comprehensive solutions, from preventive pest control to emergency bat removal. They are members of the Missouri Pest Management Association and National Pest Management Association to ensure the best level of professional care. Learn more about their services on their website and call (314) 236-7378 to get started.