Bat Damage to Attics: About Bat Infestations in Raleigh

Bats traditionally roost in caves but, if the opportunity arises, they’re just as content to form colonies in the attics of homes in Raleigh. If there are openings around a vent or damaged shingles on your roof, bats can easily squeeze their way into your attic and begin nesting.

While bats help us by keeping mosquito populations down, they’re about the last critters you want to have living in your attic. If bats take up residence in your Raleigh home, damage and health issues are sure to ensue.

 

Problems Caused by Bats in the Attic

• Guano – Unlike squirrels and mice, bats won’t chew up insulation or woodwork in your attic. However, when bats roost in your attic, their fecal matter – known as “guano” – will quickly accumulate. Guano is the most significant problem caused by a bat infestation in Raleigh. That’s because guano is exceptionally corrosive and it will destroy both insulation and flooring. If enough guano piles up, it can rot the floor of your attic and the strong musty stench may breach through your ceiling. Guano is also known to contain a fungus that, when breathed in, can cause histoplasmosis – an infection which causes feverish symptoms that persist for several weeks.
• Bat Mites – While guano is the most destructive issue caused by bat infestations in Raleigh, another risk comes from bat mites. These small parasitic pests are very similar to bed bugs. If bats introduce them to your attic, it will only be a matter of time before they spread through your household. Like bed bugs, bat mites will move into your bedding and bite you as you sleep, leaving itchy rashes. And just like bed bugs, bat mites are extremely difficult to exterminate.
• Rabies – The biggest fear which most people associate with bats is their ability to spread rabies. In fact, bats are the most common spreaders of rabies in the United States. However, it’s actually fairly rare to be bitten by a rabid bat. Still, the risk of rabies transmission is one of the many reasons why attempting to remove bats from your attic in Raleigh is never a good idea.

 

Let Us Remove Bats From Your Attic

You don’t want bats destroying your attic with guano, but they are protected by law and difficult to remove. That’s where Southern Wildlife and Land Management comes in! Contact us today if you’re looking for professional bat removal services in the Raleigh area.