Bat Removal
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Bat Removal and Humane Exclusion Services
Scratching and squeaking sounds in the attic. Staining on the ceiling. These are common signs that bats have taken up residence in your home. Because bats are beneficial to the ecosystem, bat removal is not a standard DIY project. It requires a careful, legal, and humane approach. Therefore, professional bat removal is essential.
Manzano Pest Management provides bat removal and exclusion services for homes across the metro. We understand the strict regulations around bat removal in New Mexico. Additionally, we offer commercial pest control for business owners.
Why Bat Removal Is Different from Other Pest Control
Bat removal is not like treating ants or mice. Bats are protected by state law, and the methods used must comply with specific regulations designed to protect these animals.
The Legal Reality in New Mexico
The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish prohibits killing or poisoning bats. Additionally, exclusion work is restricted during maternity season, which typically runs from May through August. Because flightless pups are present inside the structure, sealing entry points during this time would trap them inside.
The Only Approved Method: Humane Exclusion
The standard legal method for bat removal is exclusion using one-way devices. These devices allow bats to exit the structure at dusk to feed but prevent them from re-entering. Once all bats have exited, the entry points are permanently sealed. Poisons and lethal methods are not permitted. If you are dealing with other wildlife, we also offer wildlife removal and snake removal.
Health Risks of Bat Guano
Bat droppings, known as guano, can harbor Histoplasma capsulatum, a fungus that causes a respiratory disease. Because accumulated guano in attics creates structural damage and unpleasant odors, professional cleanup requires specialized protective equipment.
Signs You May Have Bats in Your Home
Bats are nocturnal and often go unnoticed until the infestation is significant. If you notice these signs alongside rodent control issues, it is time for an inspection.
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Noises in the attic or walls, particularly scratching sounds at dusk or dawn.
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Guano accumulation on attic floors, insulation, or exterior ledges.
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Staining or discoloration on ceilings or walls near roosting areas.
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Visible bats entering or exiting your home at dusk.
When Bat Removal Is Permitted in New Mexico
Timing is critical for legal and humane bat removal. Exclusion work is generally restricted during maternity season when flightless pups are present. The safer windows are spring (before May) and fall (after August). Because exact timing can shift with elevation, it is worth confirming current guidance before scheduling. If you are dealing with other stinging or biting pests in the meantime, we also provide wasp removal and scorpion control.
Areas We Serve for Bat Removal
Manzano Pest Management provides bat removal services across the Albuquerque and Rio Rancho metro. If you are dealing with bats in your area, contact us to confirm service availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just seal the entry points myself?
No. Sealing bats inside your home is both inhumane and illegal. During maternity season, flightless pups would be trapped and die. Even outside maternity season, sealing without confirming the colony has vacated can trap bats inside. Our mosquito control services also focus on preventing outdoor pest issues without trapping animals inside structures.
Is it legal to kill or poison bats in New Mexico?
No. Bats are protected under New Mexico law. Killing or poisoning bats is not permitted. The approved method is humane exclusion using one-way devices.
Why can’t exclusion work be done during summer?
Summer is maternity season for bats in New Mexico. Pups are born and cannot fly until they are several weeks old. Excluding during this time would trap the pups inside the structure. If you are dealing with other summer pests like cockroach extermination or ant control, those services can be scheduled year-round.