During the winter, bats hibernate. While they’re hibernating, bats need to stay warm and safe, so they seek out sheltered locations that are relatively warm and free of predators. Attics and garages are ideal locations.
When Do Bats Hibernate?
Bats hibernate from October through spring, but that doesn’t mean that they’re in their inactive torpor state the whole time. Bats can wake up several times to seek out food. They may be inactive for a period ranging from a few hours to several months.
When bats wake up from hibernation, they are often confused. Bats that roosted in an attic may fly around the house, which can frighten people and pets and make the bats even more confused and afraid. Although bats are unlikely to bite, it can happen.
How Do Bats Get into Houses?
Bats can squeeze through tiny openings. If there is a hole or a gap the size of your pinky in your home’s siding, roofing, or window frame, a bat can squeeze through it. Bats can also get into a house via a hole or gap in a vent or chimney. Sometimes bats find a part of a house that is already worn or damaged and enlarge an opening so they can fit through and get inside.
What Are Signs That Bats Are in Your Home?
Since bats hibernate during the winter and are inactive while they’re in a state of torpor, you may have no idea that they are living in your house – at least at first. You may hear sounds when the bats wake up and move around. You may also smell waste that they leave behind in your home.
What Should You Do about Bats in Your Attic?
If you see bats or suspect that you have bats in your house, don’t try to handle them or chase them out yourself. Bats can carry rabies, and bats that are frightened can bite.
Even if a bat doesn’t attack you or a pet, it can fly around your house in a state of panic and cause damage. Frightened family members and pets can cause property damage or get injured.
It’s best to let trained professionals take care of bats. Anderson Wildlife Control has a team of specialists who know how to safely and humanely exclude bats and other wild animals from homes. We can also figure out how bats got into your attic and make repairs so you won’t have to worry about them getting back in. Contact us today to get help dealing with bats in your attic.
