EXPERT BAT REMOVAL IN UNADILLA TOWNSHIP

1. How do I know if bats are living in my attic?

• Bats often leave behind several telltale signs of their presence. You might hear scratching or fluttering sounds at dusk or dawn, particularly in your attic or walls. Guano (bat droppings) often accumulates near entry points or in insulation, and a strong ammonia-like odor may indicate urine buildup. Another sign is visual confirmation of bats exiting your home around sunset. A professional inspection can confirm an infestation and locate exact entry points.

2. Are bats dangerous to humans or pets?

• While bats play a vital ecological role, they can pose serious health risks when inside homes. The two primary concerns are rabies, which can be transmitted through bites or scratches, and histoplasmosis, a respiratory infection caused by inhaling fungal spores from bat guano. Although not all bats carry rabies, any physical contact should be treated with caution. Pets may also be at risk if they disturb roosting bats, making prompt removal important for household safety.

3. What time of year is best for bat removal in Michigan?

• The ideal time for bat removal in Michigan is spring (before maternity season begins) or late summer through fall. From June through mid-August, many bat species enter their maternity period, during which young bats are unable to fly. Removing bats during this time is not only inhumane but often illegal. Licensed professionals know how to time exclusions legally and ethically to avoid harming bat colonies.

4. Can I remove bats from my home by myself?

• DIY bat removal is not recommended and may even be illegal during certain months. Inadequate sealing or use of harmful repellents can make the problem worse, drive bats deeper into your home, or result in legal consequences if bats are harmed. Professional bat exclusion companies use humane, one-way devices and follow strict Michigan regulations to ensure safe removal and long-term prevention.

5. How much does professional bat removal cost in Michigan?

• On average, basic exclusion work in Michigan can range from $300 to $1,500, while full attic restoration can exceed $3,000 depending on the extent of contamination. The cost of bat removal varies based on the size of the infestation, access points, and whether guano cleanup or attic restoration is needed. At Michigan’s Bat Expert, we offer free inspections and provide detailed, written estimates before beginning any work.

6. Will bats return after removal?

• If the exclusion is done correctly, bats should not return. Our professionals at Michigan’s Bat Expert seal all current and potential entry points using 35-year silicone caulk and galvanized hardware cloth, backed by a five-year warranty. This ensures a bat-proof structure. However, new entry points can develop over time due to weather or building deterioration, which is why periodic inspections are recommended.

7. How long does the bat removal process take?

• The actual exclusion process typically allows bats to exit the structure within a few days to a week. The initial inspection and exclusion setup can be done within one visit. We then conduct a follow-up inspection after 30 days to confirm that all bats are gone and that no new activity is present. If attic cleanup or restoration is required, that process may take additional time, depending on severity.

8. Do bats cause structural damage to homes?

• Yes, over time bats can cause significant structural and material damage. Guano buildup can rot wood, ruin insulation, and corrode metal surfaces. The acidity of bat urine also damages drywall and wiring. These issues, if left unaddressed, can decrease a property’s value and lead to expensive repairs. That’s why Michigan’s Bat Expert not only removes the bats but also offers full remediation and restoration services.

9. Are bats protected by law in Michigan?

• Yes, most bat species in Michigan are protected by state and federal laws, particularly during maternity season. This means it is illegal to kill, trap, or disturb bats during specific times of the year. Professional exclusion services are designed to comply with Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) regulations, ensuring humane practices that avoid fines or environmental violations.

10. What should I do if I find a bat inside my living space?

• If a bat is flying around inside your home, keep calm and isolate it by closing doors to other rooms. Open windows to give it an exit route, and avoid touching it with bare hands. If it doesn’t leave or if contact is made, call a professional immediately. The bat may need to be tested for rabies, especially if someone in the home was sleeping or unable to confirm contact. Our team offers 24/7 emergency bat removal for situations just like this.