Bats are a vital part of Wisconsin’s ecosystem. They help control insect populations, particularly mosquitoes, and play an important role in maintaining a balanced environment. But while bats are beneficial in the wild, they can become a serious problem when they make their way into homes and buildings. In West Central Wisconsin, bat activity increases during the warmer months, and residential structures can offer the perfect shelter for roosting.
If you've noticed bat activity around your home or heard fluttering or squeaking in your attic at dusk or dawn, you may be dealing with a bat intrusion. Here’s what you need to know about bats in Wisconsin—and how to keep them out of your home safely and effectively.
Why Bats Enter Homes
Bats often enter homes in search of safe, quiet, and dark places to roost. Attics, chimneys, eaves, and wall voids provide ideal conditions, especially during summer months when bats are raising their young. In most cases, bats get in through very small openings—gaps in roofing, loose siding, attic vents, or cracks as small as a half-inch.
Once inside, bats can create a range of issues. Their droppings, known as guano, accumulate quickly and can cause unpleasant odors, staining, and even structural damage. More importantly, guano may contain spores that can lead to histoplasmosis, a respiratory disease harmful to humans. While bats rarely bite or attack, they are known carriers of rabies, which makes handling or disturbing them dangerous without proper precautions.
Signs You May Have Bats
It’s not always easy to spot a bat problem right away, but there are some clear signs to watch for:
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High-pitched squeaking or rustling sounds in the attic or walls, especially at dusk or dawn
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Stains or dark grease marks near small holes or cracks in the exterior
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Bat guano (small, dark pellets) found near entry points, in attics, or on window sills
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Sightings of bats flying around your home at twilight
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to act quickly. Bat colonies can grow over time, and the longer they’re in your home, the more difficult and costly the removal and cleanup may become.
How to Keep Bats Out of Your Home
The best way to manage bat issues is through prevention and exclusion. Here are some steps homeowners can take to reduce the risk of bats entering the home:
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Inspect Your Home: Conduct a thorough inspection of your roofline, soffits, vents, and chimney for small cracks or gaps. Bats can squeeze through very small openings.
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Seal Entry Points: Use weatherproof materials like caulk, steel wool, or hardware cloth to seal any openings. Be cautious not to trap bats inside if a colony is already present.
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Install Exclusion Devices: These one-way devices allow bats to exit your home but prevent them from re-entering. Once all bats have left, the entry points can be safely sealed.
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Cap Chimneys and Vents: Install screens or caps on chimneys, attic vents, and other access points to prevent bats and other wildlife from entering.
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Turn Off Lights at Night: Exterior lights can attract insects, which in turn attract bats. Use motion lights or keep lighting to a minimum around entry points.
Because bats are protected under Wisconsin law—especially during maternity season when young bats are unable to fly—it's important that removal and exclusion are done carefully, legally, and humanely.
Trust the Experts in Bat Control
At Critter Control of West Central Wisconsin, we understand the challenges of dealing with bats in residential settings. Our trained specialists offer humane, effective bat removal and exclusion services that keep your family safe while protecting local wildlife. We’ll inspect your property, identify entry points, safely remove any bats, and implement long-term solutions to prevent future issues.
If you think you may have bats in your home, don’t wait. Contact Critter Control of West Central Wisconsin today for a professional inspection and expert advice on bat-proofing your home. We're here to help you take back your space—safely and responsibly.