Bats are territorial creatures. Once they pick a roosting spot, they will revisit it every year unless you stop them from getting to it. Bats can be some of the most destructive and dangerous pests to have in your home. Bats urinate and defecate everywhere they roost, causing staining and odor problems which are difficult to remove. Bat guano (droppings) are associated with several diseases which are dangerous to humans such as rabies and histoplasmosis (a lung disease caused by the spores of the fungus which grows on bat guano). While it is very dangerous to have bats in your house, bats can be very beneficial to have around the outside of your house. Bats are a protected species and it is illegal to kill them.

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Bats look for sheltered areas to rest or raise their young. They often roost in attics, soffits, under siding, and behind gutters or shutters. Noticing bats flying around your home at dusk is a good indicator that you may have a bat problem. Also listen for buzzing, chirping and squeaking coming from the attic; these are the sounds of bats communicating with each other. Look for black streaks on your siding from droppings (guano) and urine as well as piles of guano near the foundation. If you have a large bat infestation, your house may begin smelling like ammonia from a buildup of guano.