In New Mexico, perhaps one of the most surprising types of pest control involves bats. They like to live inside walls, attics, and gable vents because the dark, warm, enclosed spaces are convenient for sleeping, finding insects to eat, and protecting themselves from predators. If you’re uncomfortable with the thought of these houseguests, consult the guide below for advice. 

Common Types of Bats & Their Characteristics

Little brown, Mexican long-tongued, and Yuma bats are three of the most common species found locally. For most people, the little brown bat is probably the most familiar. They only grow to be two to four inches long and feature shiny brown fur. They’re active two or three hours after sunset and shortly before dawn, though they hibernate from early fall to late spring.

Mexican long-tongued bats have long snouts and mostly eat fruit, flowers, and the occasional insect. In the fall, they migrate to warmer climates and remain active throughout the winter. They’re easily startled and fly out of the space they occupy if you disturb them.

Finally, Yuma bats have dull, puffy, and grayer fur. They hunt for insects around sunset. Most scientists believe that they migrate in the winter and return in the spring.

All these bat species use echolocation to find food and navigate their surroundings. Rabies is rare in any species of bat, but it can happen. Their feces and urine may also carry diseases, making pest control a priority. Even without those risks, it can be bothersome to hear them flying, crawling, or screeching at night.

How to Treat & Prevent Bat Infestations

Since all these bats rely heavily on echolocation to communicate, eat, and navigate, one way pest control experts drive them out of your house is to have a wildlife control company install a device that emits electromagnetic sound frequencies. The bats can’t thrive in such a confusing environment, prompting them to leave. 

Other than that, fix or patch any holes through which the bats are entering your home. Chimneys, vents, and other necessary openings can have polypropylene netting set up inside them, allowing bats to go outside but not come back inside.

If you want a professional pest control company to ensure that your home is proofed against bats, contact Taylor's Weed & Pest Control in Hobbs, NM. With each technician licensed by the New Mexico Department of Agriculture, they’ll safely rid your home of any bat infestations, in addition to offering insect and rodent control, termite treatments, and more. As experts in lawn care, they’ll even help with weed control as well. Book a visit today by calling (575) 492-9247 or messaging them online.