Successful bat exclusion work is based on performing the following steps:
1. Ensure exclusion is legal in your state.
2. Never perform exclusion on a maternity colony from May 1-August 15 unless you know the pups are capable of flight.
3. Inspect the structure to identify all major bat travel pathways.
4. Seal all openings or potential openings bats can use except those identified in step 3 from the peak of the roof down to the ground on all sides of the structure.
5. Install exclusion material or devices over the major travel pathways allowing the bats to exit but not reenter the structure.
6. Monitor the exclusion until all bats have been removed from the structure (generally 3 to 21 days).
7. Remove the exclusion material and seal the remaining openings.
8. Routinely inspect the structure and make necessary repairs.
Don’t bother with mothballs, ultrasound, etc. as they have questionable effectiveness and/or are potentially dangerous. Bat exclusion work is detail oriented and at times very dangerous. Make sure to have all necessary safety equipment and know how to use it before performing any work.
Basic information on bat control can be found at Bat Information and at Bats
Information on the use of bat houses can be found at Bat Houses
For tips for finding a qualified professional as well as organizations (not screened and no endorsement is implied), visit Service Vendors
