Discovering bats on your property can be an unsettling experience. Only a scant few of us are really used to dealing with them, and the average home or business owner in Iowa doesn’t have the training to handle them safely or effectively. Yes, they play an essential role in the ecosystem, but their presence on your property poses a variety of hazards.
If you’re in Iowa and in need of professional bat removal services, look no further than Springer Pest Control for a bat exterminator.
Bat “Blackout Dates” in Iowa
In Iowa, wildlife protection laws designate specific “blackout dates” when bat removal or exclusion activities are strictly prohibited. These periods align with critical times in the bat lifecycle (maternity and hibernation seasons) so these vital creatures can safely raise their young and rest undisturbed.
For residents of Iowa, the blackout dates are set from May 15th through August 15th during the summer months, and from October 1st through March 31st in winter. Disturbing or attempting to remove bats during these times is completely forbidden by law. That said, our team can conduct thorough inspections throughout the year, so you’ll be prepared to address any bat concerns as soon as the blackout period ends.
Common Bats in Iowa
- Little Brown Bats: Little brown bats are small, roughly 3-3.5 inches in length and a wingspan of 8.5-10.5 inches. Their fur is short and glossy either ashen in color or slightly rust hued. Little brown bats are protected, an endangered species in North America, so we don’t recommend attempting a DIY removal.
- Big Brown Bats: Most of their size comes from the wingspan which is just above a foot in width. Their body is around 4.5 inches in length on average. Big brown bats tend to be insectivorous and nocturnal, making them incredibly widespread across the country in both urban and suburban/rural settings. Their fur is usually a darker and muddier brown than their smaller cousins.
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The Hazards of Bats
Bats can carry various diseases that have the potential to be transferred to humans and other animals. That’s only one reason why prompt bat control is crucial for you and those who live and work on your property. If you leave bats in your property unattended, you run the risk of:- Rabies: Rabies is a potentially fatal disease that affects mammals, including bats. While most bats do not carry rabies, it’s challenging to determine if a bat is infected just by looking at it. Bites or scratches from bats should be taken seriously, and immediate medical attention should be sought to rule out any risk of rabies transmission.
- Histoplasmosis: Histoplasmosis is a fungal infection caused by breathing in spores present in bat droppings (guano). When bat guano accumulates in attics, crawl spaces, or other areas, it can release spores into the air. Inhaling these spores can lead to respiratory issues, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.
- Structural Damage: Bats often seek refuge in attics, wall voids, and chimneys, potentially causing structural damage to your property. Their urine and droppings can corrode materials and stain ceilings, walls, and insulation. Over time, this can lead to costly repairs and compromised structural integrity.
- Noise and Odor: Bats are nocturnal creatures and can be noisy during their activity periods, which can disturb your sleep and peace of mind. Moreover, their droppings emit a strong, unpleasant odor that permeates the affected areas and can be difficult to eliminate without professional intervention.
While bats play an essential role in our ecosystem, they often become a dangerous nuisance when they invade your home. A bat infestation in your home poses a significant risk to you and your family due to their potential to transmit diseases.
Professional Bat Extermination
Springer Pest Control specializes in efficient and effective bat removal services tailored to the specific needs of Iowa residents. We’ll make sure that your home is free of pests and the risks of illness, property damage, or generalized distress. There’s no fear of bats in the belfry when you work with Springer, so contact us online for a free quote.
