While homeowners don’t want any pests to take up residence in their homes, bats are likely among the least desirable. Not only can they carry dangerous diseases, but they can fly, making trapping and relocating them much more difficult. Luckily, bat droppings (or bat guano, another bat poop name) have a few distinct characteristics that will make it easy to determine if you’re dealing with an infestation of bats or a different four-legged pest. If you determine bats are the ones leaving droppings in your home, a wildlife removal technician who specializes in humane removal methods can relocate bats to somewhere other than your attic.
I’ve had my share of attic surprises, and spotting droppings can definitely spark some worry. From my experience, identifying bat guano quickly can save you a lot of hassle. Beyond the characteristics mentioned, it’s worth noting that bat droppings tend to accumulate in specific spots where bats roost, like under beams or near entry points. According to wildlife studies, a single bat can produce up to 20 droppings a day, so a small colony of 50 bats could leave thousands of droppings in a week! If you’re seeing piles, don’t wait¡ªcall a pro. One practical tip I’ve learned is to check for guano at dusk when bats are active; you might even spot them leaving the roost, confirming your suspicions.
Bat Droppings Are Oval in Shape, Similar to a Rugby Ball
Bat droppings are small, between 4 and 8 millimeters long¡ªslightly larger than a grain of rice. The droppings are dark in color and segmented, so the shape resembles a rugby ball. Since bats roost in concealed, remote spaces, bat guano collects beneath ridge boards, gable ends, or around chimneys. Homeowners may also spot bat droppings on porches, balconies, or decks. The piles of guano may be several centimeters deep.
Homeowners who spot bat poop on their property will want to get rid of it as soon as possible, especially if there are pets or children who could come in contact with it. Homeowners can attempt to remove it with a shovel or dustpan and by double bagging it before putting it in the trash. However, it may be safer to wait for a wildlife removal specialist to remove the bat guano due to the risk of disease.
Some gardeners swear by using bat guano as a fertilizer, but it’s generally not safe to harvest any bat droppings for use in a backyard garden. There are regulations in place from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to control the decomposition and drying process for commercially sold manure and guano fertilizer that minimizes these disease risks.
Those rugby-ball-shaped droppings are a dead giveaway, but here’s something I’ve noticed: they can sometimes stick to surfaces like wood or siding, making cleanup trickier. If you’re dealing with a pile, it’s not just gross¡ªit’s a health hazard. The USDA’s strict rules on guano processing aren’t just red tape; they’re there because raw guano can carry fungi like Histoplasma, which can cause lung infections. If you’re tempted to scoop it up yourself, I’d recommend wearing a mask and gloves, but honestly, I’ve seen enough to know it’s better to let professionals handle it. Also, if you’re thinking about using it for your garden, commercial guano is treated to kill pathogens, so stick to store-bought options. Cleanup costs can vary, but expect to pay $200-$500 for professional guano removal, depending on the extent of the mess.
Bat Poop Can Look Like Mouse Droppings, but Mouse Poop Won’t Pass the Crumble Test
Homeowners who have spotted mouse droppings may think that bat droppings look similar. While a homeowner looking at bat poop pictures may think it’s mouse poop, there are several distinct differences. The best way to determine which animal the droppings came from is the crumble test: Take a dropping and put it in a paper towel or tissue, then press it together between your fingers. Bat droppings will crumble into a fine powder with minimal pressure. Bat poop may also look slightly glittery, as a bat’s diet is composed mainly of insects and bats aren’t able to fully digest the exoskeletons. When performing the crumble test, it’s important to wash your hands thoroughly afterward.
What does mouse poop look like? Rodent poop is more elongated and pinched in shape than bat poop. Newer mouse droppings may be whitish and soft, while older droppings are harder and won’t crumble.
I’ve done the crumble test myself (not my proudest moment), and it’s surprising how easily bat guano turns to dust compared to mouse droppings. That glittery look from insect exoskeletons is another clue¡ªthink of it like tiny sparkles in the poop. Scientifically, this happens because bats’ digestive systems break down soft insect parts but leave harder bits behind. If you’re not sure, try shining a flashlight on the droppings; the glint can be a telltale sign. One trick I’ve picked up is to lay down some newspaper under suspect areas for a night or two¡ªfresh droppings will confirm if it’s bats or mice. This can save you from guessing and get you to the right pest control solution faster.
Bat Droppings Have an Acrid Odor and May Leave Stains
To no one’s surprise, bat poop doesn’t smell great. As??? decomposes, bat guano can have a musty, acrid odor. And since bat guano often collects in large quantities, it may not be long before a homeowner smells it. Bat urine and guano can also stain wood, drywall, and other materials, especially when there’s a significant infestation and, therefore, a significant amount of waste produced. The staining is very difficult to remove, and paint may only be able to cover the stains for a short while until they show through again. It’s often better to remove any affected sheetrock and insulation and replace it after a bat infestation is resolved.
That smell is no joke¡ªI once walked into an attic and was hit with a stench like damp, sour ammonia. It’s not just unpleasant; it’s a sign of a bigger problem. The stains from bat guano and urine are stubborn because they’re acidic, eating into materials like wood or drywall over time. I’ve seen homeowners try to paint over them, only to have the stains bleed through in a few months. Replacing affected materials can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000, depending on the damage, but it’s often the only way to fully fix it. One practical tip: if you smell that musty odor in your attic, check for stains on ceiling beams or walls¡ªit’s a strong hint bats are roosting above.
Bat Guano Deposits Can Signal an Infestation
Some species of bats are solitary dwellers, but many live in colonies. These communal bats will create piles of guano that can be several centimeters deep. If a homeowner spots piles like these, it is likely a sign of a bat infestation, and they’ll require the assistance of a wildlife removal expert. A homeowner may be able to trap and relocate one solitary bat, but it’s often better not to take the risk and leave any bat removal to an experienced professional.
Piles of guano are like a neon sign screaming ¡°bat problem.¡± I’ve seen colonies leave behind enough droppings to fill a bucket in just a few weeks. Research shows that a single colony of 100 bats can produce over 10 pounds of guano in a month, which is why those piles build up fast. If you’re seeing this, don’t try to play hero with a DIY trap¡ªbats are tricky, and you could end up with a bigger mess or even a bite. A pro will use exclusion devices, like one-way valves, to let bats leave without coming back. Check your local regulations too; in some states, it’s illegal to disturb bats during certain seasons, which a good wildlife expert will know.
Bat Droppings Can Harbor Zoonotic Pathogens That Are Dangerous to Humans
One of the biggest
reasons it’s safer to hire a professional for bat removal is the threat bats (and their poop) can pose to human health. According to the Centers for Disease Control, bats are among the most commonly reported rabid animals and a leading cause of rabies deaths. Bats and their poop can also harbor dangerous fungi and potentially life-threatening viruses like ebola. Bats themselves can spread diseases by biting and scratching. It’s essential that anyone who has come in contact with a bat or its feces seek out urgent medical attention.
I can’t stress enough how serious the health risks are. I once knew someone who thought they could clean up guano without protection and ended up at the doctor after inhaling fungal spores. Histoplasmosis, a lung infection from bat guano, is reported in thousands of cases annually in the U.S., especially in areas with large bat populations like the Midwest. If you’ve touched or been near bat droppings, don’t wait¡ªwash thoroughly and call a doctor if you feel off. Professionals use respirators and hazmat gear for a reason. Also, if you’re dealing with bats, ask your removal service about post-cleanup air quality testing to ensure no spores linger.
A Wildlife Control Specialist Can Take Care of a Bat Infestation, but It’s Important to Use Humane Removal Techniques
While bats can be a nuisance if they decide to roost in a homeowner’s attic, bats play an important role in the environment. They pollinate plants, feast on pests, and distribute seeds. And unfortunately, more than half of the bat species in the United States are in ¡°severe decline¡± or endangered. When looking to remove bats from the property, it’s crucial to opt for a service that uses humane removal techniques. A wildlife removal specialist will be able to carefully and safely remove the bats from the property and rehome them. Homeowners can verify that a bat removal service is reputable by checking the Bat Conservation International database.
Homeowners will want to keep in mind that individual states may have legislation regarding bat removal. For instance, some states may not allow homeowners to evict bats between the months of May and August, when dependent young are still in the roost. There may also be restrictions on removing bats in the winter when they’re hibernating. A local wildlife removal specialist should be aware of these guidelines for the state they operate in.
Bats are amazing creatures, and I hate to think of them as just pests. They eat thousands of insects a night¡ªthink of all the mosquitoes they’re keeping out of your yard! But with over 50% of U.S. bat species in decline, we’ve got to be careful. Humane removal isn’t just kinder; it’s often the law. I’ve seen exclusion methods work wonders¡ªbats leave on their own, and no one gets hurt. If you’re hiring a pro, ask if they’re certified by Bat Conservation International; it’s a good sign they know their stuff. Also, check your attic in early spring or late fall to avoid disturbing baby bats, which can complicate removal and break local laws.
Sealing Off Entry Points Can Keep Bats From Entering a Home
Bats don’t create holes to enter a home¡ªthey take advantage of ones that are already there. Once bats are excluded from a home, it’s important to take steps to ensure they don’t return. Sealing up any gaps in the attic walls or around windows and vents can keep bats from making their way back in. Bat populations have taken a hit, in great part due to human activity. Homeowners interested in providing homes for bats can opt for one of the best bat house plans or bat boxes. One of the benefits is that since bats feast on insects, homeowners can save money by supporting natural pest control.
Sealing up your home is like locking the door after a break-in¡ªyou’ve got to do it right. I’ve seen bats squeeze through gaps as small as a half-inch, so don’t skip the tiny cracks. Use caulk or wire mesh for small holes and check vents for tight screens. Installing a bat house is a win-win; I put one up in my backyard, and it’s been great to watch bats move in while keeping my attic clear. A decent bat house costs $30-$100, and it’s a small price to pay for natural pest control¡ªbats can eat up to 1,000 insects a night! Just make sure to place it high up, ideally 10-15 feet off the ground, facing south for warmth.