Do Bats Hibernate? Understanding Winter Bat Activity and Safe Bat Removal Near You
Mild Winter Warm-Ups And Winter Bat Activity in Des Moines Homes
Here in Des Moines in neighborhoods like Beaverdale, Windsor Heights or Sherman Hill, bats are a common occurrence in the warm summer nights. They help control insect populations and benefit agriculture but come winter time, no one wants them roosting in their attic, walls, or basement. It’s a shock to the system when you come down to your basement to see a bat flying around!
What surprises many homeowners is hearing or seeing bat activity during winter. This phenomenon happens because bats don’t truly hibernate like bears. Instead, they enter a state called torpor, where their body temperature and metabolism drop significantly to conserve energy. However, unlike true hibernators, bats can wake up during winter for various reasons:
Sleep Walkers
During hibernation, bats enter a state called torpor, significantly lowering their body temperature and metabolic rate to conserve energy. However, they don’t remain in this state continuously throughout the winter. Bats naturally arouse periodically during hibernation to drink, eliminate waste, or even relocate to more suitable roosting sites. These arousal periods can lead to unexpected bat activity within homes, especially if bats have chosen attics or walls as their hibernation spots.
During these times, homeowners might hear rustling noises between walls or encounter bats flying in basements or attics. Such occurrences are more common during warmer winter days when bats are more likely to awaken.
If you find yourself in this situation, consider the following tips:
- Avoid Direct Contact
Bats can carry diseases like rabies, which pose health risks to humans and pets. Attempting to handle or remove bats without proper training and equipment can be dangerous. Bat droppings can also carry infectious diseases.
- Do Not Seal Entry Points Immediately
Sealing entry points while bats are inside can trap them, leading to increased indoor activity as they search for exits and usually leads to them panicking and finding a way into your home and flying around erratically like in the case of this homeowner:
Additionally, some bat species are protected, and improper exclusion can be illegal. At Bats and Bugs Pest Solutions, we understand these laws, and we work within state regulations throughout the year.
- Consult Professionals for Safe Removal
A professional will ensure that bats are removed humanely and that entry points are properly sealed to prevent future infestations. Professionals like Corey Nelson who has a degree in Wildlife Science and Management and does ongoing continuing education, is trained to handle bats safely and is knowledgeable about local regulations regarding bat removal.
Attempting DIY bat removal can be hazardous. Bats may carry diseases transmissible to humans and pets, and improper handling can lead to bites or scratches. Moreover, without proper exclusion techniques, bats can find their way back into your home. additionally, bats are able to carry rabies, and if there is even a chance that a bat has bit you or anyone in your home then you should reach out to Iowa Health and Human Services here At Bats and Bugs Pest Solutions, we specialize in the safe removal of bats, sealing potential entry points, and providing warranties for a bat-free home. Protect your family and pets by entrusting this task to professionals. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and ensure peace of mind.
Click here, or call us at 515-218-3400.
