Observe where bats are leaving their roost at dusk. This may be difficult because bats do not usually depart until 30 to 40 minutes after dusk. After all their exits from a building have been observe, seal all except the major one.

 

Careful inspection is necessary. Bats can enter through very small openings. Seal all openings over six millimetres (one quarter of an inch) in diameter.

 

Cover the larger openings with sheet metal, wood or other suitable materials. Use three-millimetre (one-eighth-of-an-inch) hardware cloth where ventilation is necessary. Plug narrow cracks with foam, tar or a similar packing material, and seal with a caulking compound. Screen chimney caps can be purchased from building supply outlets ar can be made from three-millimetre (one-eight-of-an-inch) hardware cloth.

 

 

 

During the warmer months, bats will usually leave the roost 20 to 30 minutes after the first bat departs. When all the bats have left, plug the remaining opening.

 

 

The odor of a roost is strong and persistent. It may attract new bats. If possible, therefore, the deserted roost should be thoroughly cleaned. Extensive vacuuming is usually required. (Vacuum should be left outside during this procedure to prevent dangerous spores from re-entering the worksite) Neutralizing of bat excrement is mandatory to eliminate future colonies from entering the premises. Strong household disinfectant and moth balls will help repel future colonies.

 

 

RABIES- Bats can have rabies. Avoid bats acting strangely, flying about during the day or creeping about on the ground. Never handle living or dead bats with your bare hands.

 

HISTOPLASMOSIS- This is a lung disease that may infect people, dogs, cats or other animals. It is contracted from breathing in microscopic spores from the droppings of bat excretment within the roost site. Histoplasmosis' consequences can range from a cough to possible death. A NIOSH/MSHA approved dust respirator should be worn at all times when handling bat droppings.