Polk County’s abundant landscapes and wildlife means it’s not uncommon for property owners to find out they have a bat problem. No infestation is easy to deal with, but bats can be extra tricky. That’s because bats are legally protected from being harmed or killed in the state of Florida, and during specific months of the year, bats can’t be removed at all due to mating season protections.
Additionally, bats often carry diseases that are transmitted through their guano and urine such as histoplasmosis. Untrained residents who attempt at-home removal and clean-up methods can further spread such airborne diseases. Due to their legal protections and the health risks they pose, Florida bat infestations must, therefore, be handled as soon as possible by licensed bat removal experts like those at Critter Control® of Polk County.
Why is Bat Removal Important?
Bat types have an important role in pest control and also pollination of flowers while in nature. However, when these bats invade properties belonging to their residents, they can seriously compromise their health and safety. Guano is one term that is often associated with their droppings and histoplasmosis is most popular in its effects on humans. It inflicts major damage on its house and structure when left indoors.
In Florida, bat maternity season is from April 15 to August 15. It is illegal to harm or kill bats during this time. DIY efforts to remove bats are cautioned against; you will risk compromising your health and safety. Therefore, professional bat removal services are always recommended. Through a licensed professional like Critter Control® of Polk County, you can know that you have a safe, legal, and effective solution to your bat infestation.
Our Bat Removal and Trapping Services
With several bat species being protected in Florida, they must be removed from properties legally and with extra care. At Critter Control® of Polk County, we have worked hard to create a program that follows legal removal guidelines and is effective in keeping bats out of your home. Our CritterSafe® program is comprised of these four steps:
- Inspection: During the assessment, we physically inspect your home and property to identify the bat points of entry, extent of colony size, and affected property.
- Removal: Using humane, legally approved exclusion methods, we install one-way doors that allow bats to exit your property without re-entering.
- Restoration: Our team cleans and decontaminates affected areas, removes guano, and makes any necessary repairs to your property.
- Exclusion: We seal all possible entry points while staying fully in compliance with Florida wildlife laws to prevent future infestations.
Warning Signs of a Bat Infestation
Noticing bats on your property can be challenging at first. Here are some common signs to watch for:
- Unusual Noises: Clicking or scraping noises at night may mean you have bats living in your attic or within your walls.
- Guano Piles: Droppings of the bats on areas close to entry points are some of the signs of bat infestation.
- Strong Odors: Bat urine and droppings emit a pungent smell that worsens over time.
- Bat Sighting: You see bats flying over your house at night; this is a sign of an existing roost in or near your house
- Stains on Entry and Exit Points: Bats leave behind greasy marks, which are dark when wet, on the areas where they come in and out of your home.
If you see any of these signs, then being proactive is the smart move to stop things from getting worse.
Hearing chirping or scratching at night, or spotting guano near vents and eaves?
Use the Free HomeHelpIQ Problem Checker to confirm bat activity and urgency before you call.
Permanent and Effective Bat Removal
If you have seen bats on your Polk County property, call on our professional bat removal experts to help solve the problem. At Critter Control® of Polk County, our legal, four-step removal process will remove the bats from your home and make sure they don’t come back.
Cities in Polk County That We Cover
Since 1983 we have been solving bat infestation problems for homeowners and businesses, Our experienced pest removal technicians will quickly and safely remove nuisance bees, wasps, and other pests and wildlife from your property and ensure they don’t return. To receive your free estimate for our bee and wasp removal services, call Critter Control® of Polk County at 863-204-2815 to schedule your consultation today. You will have peace of mind knowing your bat problem will be permanently and effectively resolved.
Bat Removal (Frequently Asked Questions)
Why is it dangerous to remove bats from my home on my own?
Bats may react defensively if disturbed, risking bites or scratches. Moreover, bat droppings (guano) and urine can accumulate in hard-to-reach places, posing health hazards. Without proper protective gear, exclusion techniques, and knowledge about safe removal and cleanup, DIY removal can be risky for both humans and the animals.
Are bats in Polk County protected by Florida law?
Some bat species are protected under wildlife laws in Florida. That means removal or relocation must comply with regulations and, often, require a licensed or authorized wildlife professional. It’s crucial to use a reputable service to ensure compliance and humane handling.
What time of year is it illegal to remove bats in Florida?
Bat removal during maternity or pupping seasons — when bats may have dependent pups — is typically restricted. Removing bats during those times can endanger young bats unable to survive without the colony. Professional services follow state guidelines to avoid illegal or harmful removal during sensitive periods.
What health risks come from bat droppings or guano inside my home?
Accumulated guano and urine can produce strong odors and harbor parasites or pathogens. Disturbing old droppings during renovation or cleanup can release dust and spores into air, posing respiratory hazards or other health risks. Proper cleanup by trained professionals reduces these risks significantly.
How does Critter Control® of Polk County safely and legally remove bats?
They assess the situation carefully, determine bat species and nesting status, and use exclusion methods that allow bats to leave but prevent re-entry. Removal is done in compliance with wildlife protection laws, ensuring bats are handled humanely while keeping your property safe and legal.
What steps are included in your professional bat removal process?
Steps typically include: inspecting the property to locate entry/exit points, installing one-way exclusion devices, sealing all potential re-entry points after bats vacate, cleaning and sanitizing areas contaminated by droppings, and advising on preventive measures to avoid future infestation. This comprehensive process ensures long-term safety and effectiveness.
How can I prevent bats from coming back after removal?
After removal, sealing all cracks, vents, gaps in eaves, and around windows or roofs is crucial. Regular roof/attic inspections — especially after storms or repairs — help catch vulnerabilities early. Minimizing access points and keeping exterior lights and openings secure reduces chances of re-infestation.
Do you provide bat removal services for both homes and commercial properties in Polk County?
Yes — services are available for both residential homes and commercial properties throughout Polk County. Whether it’s an attic in a house or a commercial building’s roof, the team evaluates each location and plans removal accordingly.
After I submit the form, how soon will your team contact me for inspection or a quote?
Typically, the team aims to respond promptly to inquiries — often within a short business day — to schedule an inspection or provide a quote. Urgent bat issues that pose immediate risk are prioritized to ensure timely service and safety.
