Bats – nocturnal hunters. How to deal with them?
The appearance of bats in our homes can cause anxiety and raise questions about how to deal with them. Although these nocturnal creatures play an important role in the ecosystem, their unwanted presence in living spaces can be a nuisance. But how do you find a balance between nature conservation and comfort? In our article, you will find answers to these questions, learn why bats are so often found near human settlements, and what steps can be taken to deal with them safely and effectively.
Behaviour and role of bats in nature
Nocturnal hunters, or bats, are fascinating creatures. Their behaviour is particularly interesting because they are nocturnal, which allows them to effectively avoid predators and specialise in hunting insects. Bats use echolocation to locate their prey in the dark by emitting ultra-high sounds that bounce off obstacles and return to them, creating an acoustic image of their surroundings. These abilities make bats extremely effective hunters, reducing the population of insects, including those potentially harmful to crops and human health.
The role of bats in nature does not end with insect population control. They are also important pollinators for many plants, especially in tropical ecosystems, where their nocturnal feeding supports biodiversity and improves the health of vegetation. In addition, bats contribute to seed dispersal and are an integral part of healthy ecosystems. Protecting these extraordinary animals is therefore crucial for maintaining ecological balance and promoting biodiversity.
Why do bats visit our homes?
Bats sometimes move into our homes, which can be a surprising phenomenon. The reasons for the presence of these mammals in living spaces are diverse, but often related to the specific needs of bats. One of the main reasons is the search for shelter. Bats prefer warm, dry places that are sheltered from predators and adverse weather conditions, which is why attics, basements or small crevices in buildings can be an ideal place for them to live. Thanks to their ability to climb and crawl through narrow spaces, bats are able to find their way into the most inaccessible corners of our homes, making them perfect, albeit sometimes unwanted, tenants.
Another important reason why bats may appear near houses is the search for food. Insects, which are attracted by the light of the evening illumination around buildings, are an abundant source of food for bats. Even in cities or suburbs, where changes in the natural environment can affect the availability of their natural habitats, bats are forced to adapt and look for new places that meet their nutritional needs. Understanding the reasons for the presence of bats in our homes helps to manage such situations safely and responsibly.
Safe methods of dealing with bats
If you want to deal with bats in your home effectively and humanely, there are several proven methods that will protect these precious creatures without disturbing your peace and quiet. First, identify the places through which bats enter the building. Once located, it is advisable to install special barriers or nets that allow the bats to leave the room but prevent them from returning. It is important to take these measures in good time, preferably in late autumn, when the bats leave their shelters for the winter, to avoid trapping them inside. The next step is to reduce the availability of food around the house by controlling the external light sources that attract insects, which are the main source of food for these nocturnal hunters.
If the bat problem proves difficult to solve on your own, it is worth using the professional services of nature conservation specialists. Professional methods that guarantee the safety of animals and minimise the stress associated with relocation. In addition, special bat boxes can be installed in the garden to provide alternative shelter and help relocate their activity away from the house. Remember that bats are protected by law and no methods may be used that could harm these beneficial mammals.