After discovering a thriving bat colony in my Vermont attic (counted 47 via infrared cam!), I learned the hard way that most removal tactics are illegal during maternity season (May-August here). My failed attempts:
DIY exclusion mesh: Blocked 3 bats, trapped 12 inside (illegal per state law)
Ultrasonic repellents: Bats ignored them but my dog went berserk
Now facing a $3k fine for accidental harm to endangered little brown bats, I need ethical solutions compliant with the Endangered Species Act and state wildlife codes.
STOP! Bats are federally protected if maternity roosting. Use one-way exclusion tubes ONLY in fall. Contact your state’s DNR for approved contractors. DIY = jail time in some states.
Built 4 bat houses 100ft from my garage. Colony moved in 6 months later! Key: Paint houses dark + add vent slots. @BatRehab_Jen Will guano under houses attract pests?
Your fine could spike to $50k if bats are endangered. Demand genetic testing by Fish & Wildlife first. Many ‘little brown bats’ are actually protected Northern long-eared bats.
Used a bat valve but babies starved. Had to pay 8krehab+12k attic restoration. Cheaper to hire pros! Ask contractors for USFWS permits upfront.
Disturbing guano releases histoplasmosis spores. Rent HEPA negative-air machines before cleanup. My ER bill: $4k. Health dept condemned my house for 3 months.
Guano attracts beetles, not pests. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around houses. Never use dark paint, absorbs too much heat. Use cedar stain + East/West orientation.
N95 masks DON’T block spores! I contracted histoplasmosis during DIY removal. Needed 1 year antifungals. Hire biohazard teams with Level C suits. Cheaper than death!