Having a bat inside your home can be a frightening experience. Bats are nocturnal creatures that are often associated with spooky or creepy situations. However, bats are important for the ecosystem as they help control insect populations. If you find a bat inside your house, it’s crucial to safely remove it without harming the bat or yourself. Here are some steps you can take to get a bat out of your house.
1. Stay Calm and Observant
When you spot a bat inside your house, the first thing to do is to remain calm. Panicking may scare the bat and make it harder to capture. Instead, stay observant and try to locate where the bat is flying or resting.
2. Ensure Your Safety
Before attempting to remove the bat, make sure to protect yourself. Bats are known carriers of various diseases, including rabies. It’s important to wear gloves and long sleeves to prevent any potential contact with the bat.
3. Open Doors and Windows
One of the simplest ways to encourage the bat to leave your house is to open doors and windows. Bats are intelligent creatures and are likely to fly towards the exit if given the chance. Turn off all lights in the room except for the ones leading outside to make it easier for the bat to find its way out.
4. Provide an Exit Route
If the bat is not leaving on its own, you can gently guide it towards the exit. Use a broom or a towel to gently direct the bat towards an open window or door. Make sure to move slowly and avoid making sudden movements that may startle the bat.
5. Use a Container
If the bat is resting somewhere high up and cannot be easily guided towards an exit, you can use a container to safely capture it. Choose a container with a lid, such as a plastic tub or a cardboard box. Approach the bat slowly and carefully place the container over the bat. Slide a piece of cardboard underneath the container to trap the bat inside.
6. Release the Bat Safely
Once you have successfully captured the bat, it’s time to release it back into the wild. Find a suitable outdoor location away from your house, preferably near trees or a water source. Open the container and allow the bat to fly away on its own.
7. Seek Professional Help
If you are uncomfortable handling the bat on your own or if the bat appears injured, it’s best to contact a professional wildlife removal service. They have the expertise and tools needed to safely capture and relocate the bat without causing harm to the animal.
8. Prevent Future Encounters
To avoid having bats enter your house in the future, you can take steps to bat-proof your home. Seal any gaps or cracks in your walls, roof, or windows where bats could potentially enter. Keep doors and windows closed, especially during dusk and dawn when bats are most active.
Conclusion
Removing a bat from your house can be a challenging task, but with the right approach, you can safely and humanely get the bat out without causing harm. Remember to stay calm, ensure your safety, provide an exit route for the bat, and seek professional help if needed. By following these steps, you can peacefully coexist with bats and appreciate the vital role they play in the ecosystem.
