How to Safely Catch and Evict a Bat from Your House

Encountering a bat in your house can be both surprising and concerning. However, you should not panic. The best approach is to safely and humanely catch and release the animal. Below, we will guide you through the process of safely dealing with a bat in your home, including steps to prevent re-entry.

Contacting Professionals

It is recommended to contact a trained naturalist, veterinarian, or local animal control for assistance in safely removing the bat. These professionals have the right equipment and expertise to handle the situation without causing harm to the bat or to you. They may also provide valuable information on bat behavior and prevention methods to keep bats out of your home in the future.

Cautious Removal

I had first-hand experience with catching a bat in my home, which required a bit of caution and precision. Instead of rushing to grab the bat with my hands, I used a net curtain to gently capture the bat. It's crucial to move quietly and slowly, as bats become highly stressed and anxious when they sense you approaching. Remember, while bats do have excellent echolocation abilities, they rely on their hearing and sense of touch more than their vision.

Long-term Solutions

To prevent future incidents, you should first identify how the bat entered your home. Once you've located the entry points, seal them up during the evening when the bats are active. This will ensure that they cannot re-enter, and you will likely need to repair any damage during the day when it's easier to work. While this can be a challenging process, it's essential for long-term success.

Catch and Release Techniques

There are several methods to safely catch and release a bat, each with its own set of steps. One method involves using a net or a large towel to gently ensnare the bat and carefully release it outside. Another method uses a small box, which you can place over the bat to trap it. After placing the bat inside the box, slide a piece of cardboard under the open end to trap the bat inside the box, then take the box outside and gently release the bat near a nearby tree.

Preventive Measures

Opening as many windows as possible, closing closet or toilet doors, and turning on every light in the house can make it easier for the bat to find its way out. Make sure to stay clear and quiet during these actions, giving the bat the space it needs to escape.

Ethical Considerations and Benefits

It's important to consider the ethical and ecological impact of bats. They play a crucial role in controlling insect populations, such as mosquitoes, which can be harmful. In the UK, it is against the law to disturb bats or their roosts. Therefore, it is vital to handle bat removal with care and never harm the animal.

Personal Experience

My personal experience trapping a bat involved a quick-thinking maneuver using an empty coffee can. After placing the can over the bat, I used a dustpan to slide under the bat and the can, then carried it outside. Experiencing the bat's appearance in my home made it clear why it's important to be cautious and to handle the situation with care. Fortunately, I can now say, 'Good riddance' to that nasty-looking creature.

Conclusion

Dealing with bats in your home can be a daunting task, but with the right approach and precautions, you can ensure a humane and effective outcome. Remember, the vast majority of bats are harmless, and they play a significant role in maintaining the ecological balance. By taking the necessary steps, you can protect both your home and the health of these wonderful creatures.