Signs that You Have Bats Living in the Attic

1. Strange Noises:
   One of the most noticeable signs of bats in your attic is the presence of strange noises, especially during the evening and early morning hours when bats are most active. You may hear squeaking, chirping, or scratching sounds coming from the attic. These sounds can be quite distinct and different from those made by other animals.
2. Guano:
   Bats tend to leave behind droppings (guano) wherever they roost. If you find piles of small, dark pellets in your attic, it's a strong indicator of a bat infestation. Guano can accumulate over time, leading to a foul odor and potential health hazards as it can contain harmful bacteria and fungi.
3. Stains and Odors:
   Bat urine and guano can cause stains on the ceiling and walls of your attic. Over time, these stains may become more visible and give off a distinct, unpleasant odor. If you notice any unexplained stains or unusual odors in your attic, it's a sign that bats may be present.
4. Visible Entry Points:
   Bats typically enter and exit your attic through small openings or gaps in the roofline or siding of your home. Inspect the exterior of your house for any cracks, holes, or openings that are large enough for bats to squeeze through. Bats can fit through openings as small as a half-inch in diameter, so pay close attention to even the tiniest gaps.
5. Guano Accumulation Outside:
   In addition to finding guano in your attic, you may also notice piles of droppings on the ground near your home's exterior walls. This can indicate a bat colony residing in your attic, as they often defecate as they leave their roost at night.
6. Sudden Increase in Insects:
   Bats are voracious insect eaters, and their presence can lead to a significant decrease in the number of flying insects around your home. If you suddenly notice a surge in mosquito, moth, or other flying insect populations around your property, it could be a result of bats foraging nearby.
7. Seeing Bats:
   While bats are nocturnal and often active when we are not, you might occasionally see bats entering or leaving your home at dusk or dawn. Keep an eye out for these moments, as it's a clear sign that you have bats in your attic.

1. Confirm the presence of bats by consulting with a wildlife professional who specializes in bat removal and exclusion.
2. Do not attempt to remove bats or seal entry points yourself, as it can be dangerous and may lead to legal consequences.
3. Work with a professional to safely exclude the bats from your attic using humane methods that do not harm them.
4. Once the bats are safely removed, clean and sanitize the attic to remove guano and eliminate any health hazards.
5. Seal all entry points to prevent bats from returning.