Beasts Begone! Bats

BATS

Small (usually less than 1 oz.), dark, flying mammals. Nocturnal. Frequent invader of attics and wall voids. Occasionally enter basements and human living spaces.

Access Routes

Since bats are flying animals, no specific access routes (besides a relatively clear flight lane) are needed.

Entry Sites

Usually on the upper portion of the structure. Any opening larger than a 1/4 inch has potential as an entry site. Common locations include roof drip edges, dormer tie-ins, roof corners, chimneys, vents, deteriorated roofs, walls, and eaves.

Sounds

High-pitched, rapid clicking. Scratching in walls, attics, etc. Fecal Droppings

Dark, elongated, granular, 1/4 to 1/2 inches long, crumbles into dust (actually insect parts) when rubbed between two fingers. Often confused with mouse droppings, which are more tapered at the ends and hard (won't crumble).

Odor

Distinctive, acrid, musty odor (from large colonies in particular).

Hair

Dark, brown, or gray; 1/8 to 1/4 inch long.

Other Signs

Urine stains; body rub marks (especially at heavily used entry sites).

About This Site

These pages are maintained by the New York State IPM Program, part of Cornell Cooperative Extension. All material is protected by Section 107 of the 1976 copyright law. Copyright is held by Cornell University and the New York State IPM Program.