Many people regard bats as frightening and evil, but these often misunderstood creatures do not deserve that reputation. In fact, bats can be very helpful creatures to have around. As humans increasingly spread out into suburbs and rural areas, however, more and more problems with bats are cropping up. It is important to understand these flying mammals to ensure your problems with them are minimal and easily solved.

The vast majority of bats on the planet feed on insects, especially flying ones. This includes mosquitoes and biting flies. Even a small colony of bats can drastically reduce the insect population in their area, which makes them an important part of the ecosystem, as well as providing humans with the obvious benefit of having fewer annoying insects around. Many people even build special bat houses, like bird houses, to encourage bats to roost nearby. Their guano is often harvested from larger bat houses or caves and used as a fertilizer for gardens as it is very rich in vital nutrients.

Many people are afraid of bats spreading diseases, and while this can be a valid fear, the likelihood of encountering a diseased bat is quite small. One of the major diseases people fear is rabies, but less than 0.5% of bats in the United States are rabid, and those that are will be easy to spot as they will be disoriented and usually unable to fly or unable to fly well. It is wise, however, to never attempt to handle an injured or sick bat. If you see one, the best course of action is to call the local animal control center.

In spite of the benefits of having bats around, however, they are typically unwelcome house guests. If they have taken up residence in your home or building, it is often a good idea to get professional help. Choose your pest control company carefully, though. Since bats are so valuable to the ecosystem, it is important to try to avoid killing them. Most exterminators will be able to come in and trap the bats, then release them a safe distance away so they will not simply move back in.

Once that has been done, prevention is important. Bats need to leave every night to hunt, so try to find out how they were getting in. The pest control company may be able to help locate it when they are trapping the bats. When you have found it, block it with sturdy materials to prevent another colony from moving in. You may also wish to provide alternative housing in the form of a bat house.

In summary, bats should not be feared. They are actually quite beneficial to have near your home. With a little planning and caution, you can reap the benefits of their presence without worrying about having them in your home. Co-existence with these fascinating creatures is possible.