Bats are fascinating creatures, but they can quickly become a concern for homeowners if they take up residence on your property. If you’ve noticed signs of bats in your house—such as scratching noises in the walls, droppings in the attic, or odd entry and exit points—it might be time to address the issue. Knowing how to keep bats away from your space starts with identifying the species commonly found in the Baltimore area and understanding how they behave once indoors.

Recognizing Baltimore’s Most Common Bat Species

Baltimore is home to several bat species, with a few regularly finding themselves in homes. Among the most frequent visitors are the Little Brown Bat, Big Brown Bat, and occasionally, migratory species like the Eastern Red Bat. Each has distinct habits and preferences, making it crucial to identify which species you’re dealing with.

The Little Brown Bat is aptly named, small and agile, often slipping through tiny cracks to roost in attics or walls. These bats are insectivores, which means they feed on flying insects, particularly during the night. Their droppings are a telltale sign of their presence—small, dark pellets that can build up quickly in occupied areas.

On the other hand, the Big Brown Bat is slightly larger and sturdier. This species is known to roost in more obvious places like rooflines, eaves, and larger attic crevices. You might hear their movements in the evening as they prepare to hunt. Depending on the size of the colony, Big Brown Bats can leave behind considerable amounts of droppings, which pose health risks if disturbed.

Lastly, species like the Eastern Red Bat may not commonly roost in homes but could still be a rare visitor during migration. They tend to prefer natural foliage but, when in search of warmth, may venture closer to human structures. Their reddish coat and slightly larger size differentiate them from other local bats.

Every species of bat in Baltimore plays an essential role in controlling mosquito and insect populations. However, when bats move into a home, they can create substantial messes, damage insulation, and even pose health concerns due to droppings and the diseases they may carry, such as histoplasmosis and rabies. Identifying the exact species in your home can help pinpoint the best strategies for removal.

Signs of a Bat Infestation in Your Home

The earlier you detect signs of bats in your home, the easier and less complicated it will be to address the issue effectively. Bats often leave behind various clues that can help you identify their presence before they become a bigger problem. By knowing what to look for, you can take action sooner and prevent potential damage or health risks. Here are some key signs to watch for:

• Bat sightings: Seeing bats flying in or around your home, especially at dusk or dawn, is a strong indicator.
• Noises: Listen for scratching or squeaking sounds, particularly in walls or the attic, which may grow louder over time.
• Droppings (guano): Look for droppings on walls, windowsills, or in the attic. Guano is not only unsightly but can also pose health risks if inhaled.
• Entry points: Check for small openings around your home, such as gaps in the roofline, chimneys, vents, or siding. Dark, oily stains around these openings are a clear sign of bat activity.

By staying vigilant and recognizing these signs early, you’ll be better equipped to address a bat problem quickly and effectively, preventing potential damage to your property and ensuring the safety of everyone in your home.

How to Keep Bats Away from Your Home

Effective bat prevention starts with addressing access points around your property. Conduct a close inspection of your home’s exterior, particularly along the roofline and around vents, chimneys, and utility openings. These areas should be properly sealed with durable materials like metal mesh or weather-resistant caulking.

Homeowners often overlook attic vents and gable vents, which are prime targets for bats seeking shelter. Installing vent covers made of fine wire mesh can strengthen these vulnerable spots without restricting airflow. Similarly, checking and repairing damaged roof shingles or loose siding will prevent bats from exploiting these weak points.

Lighting around your property can also play a role in deterrence. While bats are nocturnal and generally avoid well-lit areas, relying solely on lighting isn’t the most effective solution. It works best when combined with more permanent exclusion methods.

• Perform regular home maintenance for ongoing prevention. 
• Keep eaves, soffits, and gutters clean and secure.  
• Ensure there are no debris or gaps that could serve as roosting locations.  
• Trim back overhanging branches from nearby trees to prevent bats from accessing your roof.

While it might be tempting to tackle bat prevention independently, it’s important to approach this task with precision and care. Improper methods could harm bats, which are a protected species, and increase the risk of contamination from droppings. Professional wildlife control services can ensure these preventative measures are done humanely and effectively, protecting both your home and the bats.

Skedaddle’s Wildlife Control Service Go Beyond Removal

Choosing the right wildlife control company is vital when addressing bat activity. At Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control, we specialize in humane, efficient, and long-term bat exclusion techniques. Our team understands the critical timing associated with bat removal, whether managing hibernating colonies or avoiding baby season when pups cannot fly.

What sets us apart is our process, which prioritizes your safety and the well-being of bats. Using careful inspections, we identify every single entry point around your property—including the smallest gaps bats could use. Our humane one-way door systems allow bats to leave but not return, ensuring a bat-free home while complying with wildlife regulations.

We go beyond removal by offering full clean-up services. Bat droppings and urine can pose serious health risks, but our technicians are trained to decontaminate affected areas thoroughly, replacing damaged insulation when necessary. Furthermore, we seal all entry points with durable, tested materials to protect your home against future invasions.

Skedaddle’s proven track record and lifetime warranty make us your trusted partner for safeguarding your home. With over three decades of experience, we bring both expertise and peace of mind to homeowners dealing with wildlife challenges.

Breathe Easy with a Bat-Free Home

A bat infestation can be a stressful experience, but protecting your home doesn’t have to be complicated. Identifying the common species of bats found in Baltimore, understanding the signs of their presence, and implementing preventative measures are the first steps toward safeguarding your space. If you suspect bats have taken up residence in your home, acting promptly can prevent long-term damage and health risks.

When you are ready to ensure effective, humane bat control, Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control is here to help. Our team brings unmatched expertise and care to every project, putting your family’s safety and comfort first. Don’t wait for the problem to escalate—schedule a thorough inspection with Skedaddle today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a bat-free home.