Since 2006, over six million bats have been killed due to the vicious white-nose syndrome, which has ravaged over 38 states, including Pennsylvania.
In the northeast, the damage of this fungal disease has been the most pronounced, eliminating nearly 80% of bats across the region.
State officials in Pennsylvania have attempted to respond to this disturbing trend by making bats a protected species and offering numerous sanctuaries throughout the state to help bat populations recover.
The nearest sanctuary can be found at the Hawk Mountain Sanctuary in the Lehigh Valley, where visitors can come to see live bats and learn more about white-nose syndrome.
For this reason, many regulations surround how homeowners can handle bats that find their way into their homes.
This guide will help you learn more about bats’ protected status and how to properly get rid of bats without violating the law.
Facts About Bats in Pennsylvania
Bats are the only known mammals that are capable of flight. Nine bat species in Pennsylvania range in size from as small as 1 ⅛ inches to as large as 5 feet.
While six of these species hibernate through the winter, three of them move south to warmer weather where they mate in the late summer or early fall, producing small broods.
Despite the saying, “blind as a bat,” bats can see very well, especially in total darkness. In fact, they can catch prey quite easily and are known to consume over a million insects per bat in a year. For this reason, you shouldn’t fret if you see a bat as they can be quite handy pest control professionals.
Nevertheless, you don’t want a bat living in your home as they can cause untold damage to your attic and property and spread disease via their droppings.
Why Are Bats Protected in Pennsylvania?
Due to the rapid spread of white-nose syndrome, a fungal disease that has killed millions of bats since 2006, several species of bats are considered endangered under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).
Additionally, due to pesticide usage, deforestation, and habitat loss, the overall bat population is on a steady decline. Since they don’t produce more than 1-4 a year, they are struggling to keep the numbers up.
Not all bats are protected by the ESA, but if you encounter any bats, you should proceed with caution. They have been covered under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act of 1956. These laws not only protect the six different bat species, but also their habitats.
Which Bats Are Protected by the Endangered Species Act?
Several bat species are considered endangered under the ESA, including:
- The Northern Long-Eared Bat
- The Indiana Bat
- The Grey Bat
- The Florida Bonneted Bat
- The Virginia Big-Eared Bat
- The Ozark Big-Eared Bat
While these bats are not as common in our commonwealth, it’s still best practice to call a professional to handle bat exclusion, as you don’t want to risk upsetting local bat populations.
If you violate the conditions of the ESA or state law, you could be subject to a fine of $50,000 or spend up to six months in prison.
What Are the Punishments for Harming a Bat?
It is illegal to intentionally kill, capture, or hurt any bats protected by state law. You can also be charged if you damage, disturb, or destroy a roost. Punishments can range from fines as high as tens of thousands of dollars to up to six months in prison.
Additionally, it is illegal to sell bats, either dead or alive.
Why Are Bats Important for the Environment?
As we mentioned earlier, a single bat can eat over a million insects in a year. This means that bats can benefit local environments, saving trees from destruction and even your property from infestation.
Additionally, bats are known pollinators. They are the only species that can pollinate the agave plant, and they also do their part by dispersing seeds. When it comes down to it, bats easily save us billions when it comes to regulating insect control and pollinating plants.
What Do I Do if I Find Bats on My Property?
Bats are not really looking to harm anyone; they are just looking for a safe place to raise their young. However, it can be dangerous to have them roosting in your home.
Bat waste carries potential health risks, and while the risk is low, it is possible that they can carry rabies. Also, bats tend to return to roosts, so if they were a problem once, they will likely be in the future. So, what can you do?
Consider hiring professional bat exclusion services. They will be able to remove them from your home safely, so both you and the bats can go on with your lives.
Since they mate in the late summer and early fall, it’s better to remove them safely before mating season. Also, pest control experts can help seal up entryways and block access points before they arrive.
Once the bats are removed and barred from entering, do a deep clean of the area to discourage any stragglers or new visitors. Also, it would be a good idea to provide a newer, better place to live away from your home.
If bats frequent your property, consider providing bat homes. You can set them up safely and out of harm’s way.
Bats are a crucial part of our ecosystem and way of life, so it’s imperative that we protect them. If you are experiencing a bat infestation, don’t wait. Contact a pest control expert for bat pest control to remove them safely and humanely today.
FAQs
Can I remove bats from my home if they’re protected?
Yes, but it must be done legally and humanely. Most states require using exclusion methods outside of maternity season and often recommend or mandate hiring licensed wildlife professionals.
Why are bats important to the environment?
Bats control pests by eating thousands of insects each night, help pollinate plants, and disperse seeds, especially in tropical ecosystems.
When is bat removal not allowed?
Bat removal is typically restricted during the maternity season (usually late spring to early summer) when flightless pups are present. Removing bats during this time could orphan young bats and cause population harm.
