The Truth About Bats and Blindness

Posted on September 25, 2020 by virginia

Have you heard that old adage, “blind as a bat?” Well, if you were a bat, you would be quite offended by this saying. That is because bats are not blind! They don’t even have poor eyesight really. It’s just another classic misconception and misunderstanding about this amazing and highly-beneficial mammalian species we call bats.

Continue reading to learn the real truth about bats and blindness, as well as, how to protect your property from any nuisance bat interference.

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Bats are NOT Blind After All

Many people are aware that bats, Microbats specifically, use echolocation. For this reason, they wrongly assume that bats cannot see well. Yes, it is true that microbats (Microchiroptera) use echolocation to navigate around in the dark, but this is solely to help hunt prey more accurately. In fact, microbats can see quite well (and even hear quite well by the way), but they use their Echolocating abilities to navigate their course, as well as, dart and dash for prey at a more precise rate.

Bats Use Echolocation But Do Not Rely on it for Sight

Echolocation is also referred to as “biosonar”, which is a built-in biological system that works by measuring the returning echoes of emitted signals that bounce off surrounding objects. Many animals aside from bats use this type of built-in sonar system, including species of dolphins, porpoises, toothed whales, Killer whales, dwarf sperm whales, shrews, and some species of bird.

Megabats, also called Fruit bats, do not have echolocating abilities. They have big eyes and great vision, so they have no need for echolocation.

Echolocation is made possible through vocalizations that are produced by the larynx of microbats, but released through mouth and nostrils. There are a few species of Rousettus in the Megabat suborder that use a similar sonar system to Microbats, but in contrast to producing sounds in the larynx, they produce sounds by clicking their tongues.

When bats use echolocation, they emit signals in ultrasonic pulses over 15 kilohertz which then travel through the air and bounce off of surrounding objects. Bats analyze the returning sounds to identify the objects and assess the distance between them. The type of signals and sounds emitted by echolocating bats differ among species in many aspects, including frequency, length of call, intensity, and degree of modulations.

Do You See Bats Around Your House at Dusk?

Get Trusted Virginia Bat Removal and Control ASAP!

Call Virginia Bat Pros at 804-729-9097 for non-lethal bat removal and control assistance in Virginia. We serve all of Old Dominion, including Richmond, Petersburg, Short Pump, Lynchburg, Charlottesville, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Newport News, Virginia Beach, and more. We offer 24 hour bat removal, as well as, numerous residential and commercial bat exclusion services, such as bat cleanup and restorations for bat damages. We even provide insurance work! Contact us today for a free estimate.

Interesting Facts About the Species We Call Bats

Posted on August 12, 2020 by virginia

Learning about bats will not only change your mind about them, it will give you a deeper appreciation for all the positive contributions they provide to our local economies, Eco-systems, and more. Continue reading to learn some of the most interesting and fascinating facts about bats, including what to do if you have a nuisance bat problem in or around your property.

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Bats are the Only Mammal Capable of True Flight

Many people are surprised to learn that bats are actually mammals. But what’s most shocking about this fact is that bats are the only mammal in the world that is capable of true flight. Other mammals, like the flying squirrel, have the ability to leap, jump, soar, or float over great distances, but bats are the only ones who can actually take and maintain flight just like a bird. Now that’s a cool fact!

There are Two Main Species of Bats

All bats can be put into one of two categories: Microchiroptera or Megachiroptera. Microchiroptera, or microbats, are small Echolocating species that mostly consume insects, rodents, birds, and amphibians. These are the types of bats we see here in Virginia. In contrast, Megachiroptera species are much larger and have pronounced visual cortexes. They are primarily found in warmer, tropical regions of the world. Because their diets mostly consist of nectar and pollen from fruits and plants, they are referred to as fruit bats. The Little Brown Bat is an example of Microchiroptera species, and the Flying Fox is an example of a Megachiroptera species.

Bats Are Not Blind

Microchiroptera, or microbats, use echolocation to help hunt their prey and navigate around in the dark; however, they are not blind. In fact, microbats can see quite well (and hear quite well), but they use their Echolocating abilities to navigate their course, as well as, dart and dash for prey at a more precise rate. Megabats, or fruit bats, do not have Echolocating abilities. They have big eyes and great vision, so they have no need for echolocation.

Bats are 20% of the Entire Mammalia Species

There are more than 900 species of bats in the world, all broken up into different categories and classifications. The Chiroptera Order is the first class in which bats are categorized. From there they are split into suborders, genera, and then species. This amount adds up to nearly a quarter of all the mammals in the animal kingdom.

Bats Consume Over 1,000 Insects Every Hour

Bats are incredibly important parts of our surrounding Eco-system for many reasons, and one is pest control. Because bats consume an average of 1000 insects per hour every night, they make outdoor activities much more comfortable and enjoyable. Bats are an excellent method of mosquito control; and they don’t charge for their services! They also help protect surrounding plant life and gardens from insect interference and over-infestation.

It is Against the Law to Trap, Harm, or Kill Bats

Most states forbid anyone from harming, trapping, or killing bats without the proper permits. Bats are a vital part of our Eco-system; they should never be exterminated unless they are infected with a fatal or infectious disease, or injured beyond the point of rehabilitation. Only licensed wildlife rescue organizations have the resources and permissions to put a sick or injured bat down. Never attempt to touch, trap, harm, or kill bats. Not only is it likely illegal in Virginia, it is highly unethical and inhumane. If you have a problem with nuisance bats on your property, contact a licensed Virginia bat removal and control company for safe and humane assistance permitted under law.

Where to Get Safe, Non-Lethal Bat Control Service

Call Virginia Bat Pros at 804-729-9097 for safe and humane bat removal and control in Virginia. We serve all of Virginia with 24 hour bat removal, as well as, numerous residential and commercial bat exclusion services, such as bat cleanup and restorations for bat damages. We even provide insurance work! Contact us to request a free estimate, anytime.

A Bat’s Agenda When They Trespass Your Property

Posted on July 30, 2020 by virginia

Nuisance bats are more than just dangerous and destructive. They are also highly focused when it comes to their intentions with your property. Whether inside or out, bats have an itemized agenda that can be predicted, and even prevented. In fact, by understanding the innate and instinctual goals of a bat (or bat colony), you can better protect your home from future intrusions.

Continue reading to learn what bats do when they are on or inside your property and better understand how to spot signs of bat activity.

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What Bats Want With Your Property

Bats, like all other local wildlife, have two main priorities: food and shelter. Bats want a place that is dark, warm, and away from predators. Perfect spots include hollowed trees, log piles, jungle gyms, attics, crawl spaces, decks, and wall voids. As for food, they like insects that fly, such as mosquitoes, gnats, moths, and flies. If your home is near a body of water, or some other source of moisture and humidity, there are likely a lot of insects like these flying around at dusk. If so, bats might designate your property as a hunting ground come dusk.

It is a simple theoretic equation, really; if your property has sources of food and shelter for bats, they will be attracted to your property. It would make sense then, that in order to get rid of nuisance bats, all you have to do is get rid of the things that attract them to your house in the first place. But bat control is not this cut and dry. There are several other methods involved with abating a nuisance bat problem, one of which is professional intervention.

Why You Need a Pro for Bat Removal and Control

Bats are protected under state and federal laws, which means it is a legal risk to tamper with bats in nature. So, never attempt to touch, trap, harm, or kill a bat under any circumstances, even if it is inside your home. Additionally, bats are known carriers of several infectious diseases that can be transmitted to both people and pets, some of which are 100% fatal if contracted. If you see a bat outside, do not go near it, and block off access to children and pets. Only a certified professional can transport an injured or dead bat.

If you have a bat in your house that is stationary, the first thing you want to do it get away from it so that you AND the bat are safe. Whatever room it is in, try to close it off from the rest of the house. Shut all other doors to the room, but leave open a window to encourage it to leave on its own. Do not use a broom or other device to “push” the bat out. This can provoke it into defense mode, and potentially lead to an attack or bite. Instead, give it until morning to see if the bat flies out of the window. See our blog, “How to Remove a Flying Bat in the House” to learn what to do if there is one flying around your house.

You Might Be Experiencing Bat Activity if:

➽ You hear strange chattering noises in the wall.

➽ You find a heap of rodent-like droppings.

➽ You see bats flying around your house at dusk.

Get Trusted Virginia Bat Removal and Control Services You Can Afford

Call Virginia Bat Pros at 804-729-9097 for safe and humane bat removal and control assistance in Old Dominion. We serve all of Virginia with 24 hour bat removal, as well as, numerous residential and commercial bat exclusion services, such as bat cleanup and restorations for bat damages. We even provide insurance work! Contact us at 804-729-9097 to request a free estimate, anytime.

Trust Virginia Bat Pros for Affordable Bat Removal and Control in Fredericksburg

Posted on July 10, 2020 by virginia

Virginia Bat Pros is your solution to prompt and professional bat trapping, extraction, exclusion, and damage restoration in Stafford or Spotsylvania County, as well as, all areas along the Rappahannock River! Continue below to learn exactly why we are a leader among bat removal and control companies in Virginia, and how to get started with a free quote or advice today!

Virginia Bat Removal and Control 804-729-9097

Bat Damages, Hazards, and Potential Threats

Bats cause an extreme amount of structural damage and even pose health risks to both people and pets. And since bats only need around 3/8th of an inch to gain access into a home or building, your property can easily be at risk. It goes without saying that you do not want a bat problem on your hands. So, if you find yourself hearing strange nightly sounds in the attic or chimney, or actually spot bats flying around your property, it is important that something be done to stop them from causing damage to your home or building. Bat removal is a complex job, so you’ll need the assistance of our skilled, certified bat abatement professionals at Virginia Bat Pros!

What Our Pros Can Do For You

We have the expert knowledge and resources to provide workable solutions for bat infestation problems. We provide a wide range of professional bat removal and control services for all of Fredericksburg, Virginia and its surrounding districts, including Stafford County, Spotsylvania County, and all areas along the Rappahannock River. We help both residential and commercial property owners with bat extraction and exclusion, 24 hour emergency bat removal, bat cleanup and restoration, bat inspections, bat proofing, preventative maintenance, post service checkups, insurance claim work, free estimates, bat information, and much more.

Our bat removal specialists are licensed, bonded, and insured, and have more than 10 years of hands-on experience. We only use the safest and most humane methods of bat extraction and exclusion, and the case that a bat must be relocated, we take great care in transporting them to a faraway habitat that is safe and suited for them. Furthermore, we adhere to all industry accepted standards and best practices for bat abatement, and remain in accordance will all local, state, and federal laws that govern wildlife.

Why Choose Virginia Bat Pros?

☑ Licensed, Bonded, & Insured
☑ Local Community Members
☑ Over 10 Years of Experience
☑ 24 HR Emergency Services
☑ Safe & Humane Methods
☑ Affordable and Competitive Prices
☑ No Hidden Charges or Fees
☑ Free Estimates & Inspections
☑ Commercial & Residential Service
☑ Insurance Claim Compatible
☑ Superior Customer Support
☑ Broad Service Area

Get a Free Quote for Fredericksburg Virginia Bat Removal Service

There are hundreds of bat removal companies to choose from in Virginia, but it is important to select a company that retains the proper resources, skills, and credentials to implement safe and effective solutions that stand the test of time. You can trust that we are truly qualified professionals who are motivated to exceed our clients’ expectations using the highest degree of professionalism and integrity possible. From start to finish, we are there for all clients every step of the way to ensure their complete safety and satisfaction.

Contact our office at 804-729-9097 to learn more about Fredericksburg Virginia bat removal services, and how to get started with your remediation, today. Request free estimates, information or advice, anytime.

A Species Comparison of Social Bats Versus Solitary Bats

Posted on June 9, 2020 by virginia

Here in Virginia, there are around 16 species of bat found around our local ranges. Common species include the Gray bat, Indiana bat, Hoary bat, Silver-Haired bat, Red bat, and of course, the Virginia Big-Eared bat. All Virginia bat species, and more, can be classified as either social or solitary. But their classification largely depends on their natural behaviors.

Continue reading to learn the difference between social and solitary bats, including which local bat species fit into each category.

Solitary Bats

Solitary bats are just that: bats that keep to themselves. They do not settle and roost in colonies. Instead, they live alone and migrate south to warmer areas for the winter. Some species, however, are known to hibernate for the winter, rather than migrate. Generally, solitary bats take up shelter in trees along riverbeds, or in rock crevices. Common species of solitary bats here in Virginia include the Hoary bat, Red Bat, and Silver-Haired bat.

Solitary Bat Species:

➞ Silver-Haired Bat
➞ Red Bat
➞ Hoary Bat

Social Bats

Social bats are the exact opposite of solitary bats. They are colonists, meaning they take up shelter as groups, and hibernate in their chose shelter for the winter. Most often, social bats are found roosting in hollowed trees, abandoned mines, buildings, and even residential settings, like attics and wall voids. Common species of social bats include the Little Brown bat, Big Brown bat, Tri-Colored bat (formally known as Pipistrelle), Evening bat, Indiana bat, and Northern Long-Eared bat. Of these species, the Indiana and Evening bat are listed as endangered.

Social Bat Species:

➞ Indiana Bat
➞ Northern Long-Eared Bat
➞ Gray Bat
➞ Southeastern Bat

Social bats that are not typically found in Virginia: The Little Brown Bat, Big Brown Bat, Tri-Colored Bat (Pipistrelles), and Evening Bat.

Putting Up With Nuisance Bat Problems in Virginia?

Call Virginia Bat Pros at 804-729-9097 for safe and humane bat removal and control assistance in Old Dominion. We serve all of Virginia and its surrounding areas. We offer 24 hour bat removal, as well as, numerous residential and commercial bat exclusion services, such as bat cleanup and restorations for bat damages. We even provide insurance work! Contact us today for a free estimate.

How Bats Make Babies

Posted on May 18, 2020 by virginia

From male courtship and mating behaviors, to female reproduction, bat pups, and more, the way bats make and raise babies is quite fascinating. Continue reading to learn interesting facts about male and female bats, and how they create bat families.

Bat Courting and Mating

It is quite common for male and female bats to roost together in large numbers. However, male bats are competitive when it comes to mating, so they tend to define their own mating territories within these large roosts, or at least close by. Mating season begins in fall, and male bats know exactly what it takes to find a partner. They display various courtship rituals and behaviors to attract female suitors. Mostly, they emit series of high-pitched vocalizations that travel far and wide within the roost. They are also known to do courtship dances by flapping their wings and moving about. Male bats will even mark their potential partners, or their territory, with their own glandular excretions.

Bat Reproduction

Bats are mammals, and have uterine pregnancies just like most other mammals do. What’s interesting is that bats reproduce very slowly compared to many other mammals in the world, as they generally give birth to one single offspring per year, usually in the spring. Some bats have 2 or more, but it is not common. The gestation period can be short or long, lasting anywhere between 40 days and 6 months! That is because some female bats delay the fertilization process of her eggs by storing the male’s sperm until spring.

Female bats birth their young hanging upside down. Once they emerge, the female bat catches their young and places them inside her pouch. Bat babies are referred to as pups, and get their nutrition by nursing their mother’s milk. In many species of bat, females in a roost will come together and raise their young together as a group. This provides added warmth and protection. By mid-simmer, between 6 and 8 weeks, bat pups are 95% grown and fully-independent. By this time, they can leave the roost to learn to fly and hunt for insects.

Bat Colonies

A large population of bats is known as a colony. Bats are not solitary in nature, and tend to remain in large groups with multiple roosts. Bat colonies can range from a handful of bats to millions, depending on where you are at in the world. Bats are also one of the longest living mammals of their size, living up to 40 or 50 years in nature. Unfortunately, many bat populations are being wiped out by land over-development and white nose syndrome.

Nuisance Bat Control

It is important to protect your home and property from nuisance bat colonies. Although bats are incredibly important to our planet and economies, they can be highly destructive. They can even pass along several infectious diseases and parasites to both people and pets. If you suspect that bats are a problem around your area, contact a local bat control company for assistance.

How to Safely and Quickly Stop a Nuisance Bat Problem in Virginia

Call Virginia Bat Pros at 804-729-9097 when you need prompt and professional Virginia bat removal and control you can afford. We use safe and humane methods to deliver effective 24 hour bat control for residential and commercial properties throughout Virginia. We serve all of Virginia, including Richmond, Petersburg, Short Pump, Lynchburg, Charlottesville, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Newport News, Virginia Beach, and all of their surrounding areas.

Facts About White Nose Syndrome Disease in Bats

Posted on April 27, 2020 by virginia

White Nose Syndrome (WNS) is a devastating illness that has killed millions of hibernating bats all across the nation. Continue reading to learn more about White Nose Syndrome, and how it affects wild bat populations.

White Nose Syndrome (WNS) Facts

White Nose Syndrome happens to be one of the most misunderstood bat diseases. This fatal malady gets its name from the distinguishable white residue that grows on the snouts and wings of infected bats during hibernation. The residue that grows on the noses of bats is actually a fungus caused by the fungal pathogen, Pseudogymnoascus destructans. Back in 2010, new evidence proved that a fungus called Geomyces destructans can also cause WNS in bats.

Discovery and Range

The initial documentation of White Nose Syndrome occurred in 2006 near Albany, New York. The following year, several nearby caves were recorded to have WNS infected bat colonies. From there, the deadly disease continued to spread across the country, as well as Canada. As of October of 2017, the fungal pathogen has been detected in 33 U.S. states and 5 Canadian provinces. Furthermore, the actual disease has been confirmed in 31 of the 33 U.S. states, and in all 5 Canadian provinces.

So far, Canadian White Nose Syndrome has killed more than 7 million bats, and has successfully wiped out entire colonies. Some of the most at-risk bat species include the Indiana bat and the Gray Bat. These species are federally-endangered, and at a higher risk of becoming extinct due to this disease. Common species affected by WNS include the Big Brown bat (ptesicus fuscus), Eastern Small-Footed bat (Myotis leibii), Gray bat (Myotis grisescens), Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis), Little Brown bat (Myotis lucifugus), Tricolored bat (Perimyotis Subflavus), and the Northern long-eared bat (Myotis septentrionalis).

Searching for a Workable Solution

The extensive rate of mortality is devastating, and unfortunately, there is no cure. Research laboratories and state and federal biologists continue to investigate and study these WNS deaths, in hopes for a solution. In fact, back in March of 2012, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service announced 8 grants totaling approximately $1.6 million to continue the examination of white-nose syndrome, and to find ways to manage it.

Virginia Bat Removal and Control Services

Call Virginia Bat Pros at 804-729-9097 for humane bat removal and control in Virginia. We serve all of Old Dominion, including Richmond, Petersburg, Short Pump, Lynchburg, Charlottesville, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Newport News, Virginia Beach, and all of their surrounding areas, with 24 hour bat removal, as well as, numerous residential and commercial bat exclusion services, such as bat cleanup and restorations for bat damages. We even provide insurance work! Contact us at 804-729-9097 to request a free estimate, anytime.

FAQS About Virginia Bat Removal and Control

Posted on April 10, 2020 by virginia

Bats are exceptional helpers in the surrounding Eco-systems when it comes to insect control; but when it comes to homes and businesses, they are not something you want to have around. Not only are bats capable of causing tremendous structural damage inside and out, their presence can pose several health risks to both people and pets.

Unfortunately, bat infestations are quite common since they can gain access inside somewhere through a hole as little as 3/8th of an inch wide. So many homes and buildings are susceptible to bat infestations. And once they are inside, the problems really start to get serious. They can get through crumbling mortar, dry rotting wood, attic vents, exterior cracks, and more. For these reasons, it is vital to address a bat infestation problem right away by contacting a local and trusted Virginia Bat Removal and Control Company for non-lethal bat abatement service.

Before you contact a wildlife control specialist, continue reading to review the answers to some of the most common questions people have about bat removal and control. This can help you understand what to expect, and help you make the best decisions regarding your property’s wildlife protection needs.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Bats are Blind; Right?

Microchiroptera, or microbats, use echolocation to help hunt their prey and navigate around in the dark; however, they are not blind. In fact, microbats can see quite well (and hear quite well), but they use their echolocation abilities to navigate their course, as well as, dart and dash for prey at a more precise rate. Megabats, or fruit bats, do not have echolocation abilities. They have big eyes and great vision, so they have no need for echolocation.

Will a Bat Attack?

Due to movies and television, many people fear that bats will attack or bite them. The truth is, they CAN if they want to, but most often, they WON’T. Bats are more afraid of us than we are of them, and it is very unlikely for bats to attack a person or other animal. However, there are exceptions. Bats that are ill, injured, mothering, and/or aggravated, may defend themselves upon provocation by biting or scratching. If you have a bat in the house, simply leave it alone to avoid any trouble. If you give it space and let the professionals take it from there, you should not be at risk of a bat bite or attack.

Can I Catch a Bat and Kill It?

Most states forbid anyone from harming, trapping, or killing bats without the proper permits. Bats are a vital part of our Eco-system; they should never be exterminated unless they are infected with a fatal or infectious disease, or injured beyond the point of rehabilitation. Only licensed wildlife rescue organizations have the resources and permissions to put a sick or injured bat down. Never attempt to touch, trap, harm, or kill bats. Not only is it likely illegal in our state, it is highly unethical and inhumane. See our blog, “State Laws Surrounding Wild Bats” to learn more.

What Do I Do if I Find a Bat in the House?

If you discover a lone bat in your house, your first step should be to isolate it from the rest of the family and your pets. This means closing off the room it is in, but leaving open a window for an exit point. For example, if you find a bat in your bathroom, shut the bathroom door so that it cannot move to other areas of the home, but leave the bathroom window open so the bat can let itself out. Wait 12 hours for the bat to leave. If it is still there, contact a licensed bat removal and control company. If you discover a bat colony living in your home, or suspect that you might have bats in the attic, contact a licensed bat removal and control company for professional inspection and service.

Where Can I Find Trust Bat Removal Service in Virginia?

Contact Virginia Bat Pros at 804-729-9097 for safe and humane bat removal and control at the right price. Regardless of the size or scope of your bat abatement and cleanup needs, we have the experience and resources necessary to remedy your bat problem in no time at all. Our professionals are focused on safe and effective results, but more importantly, our client’s complete satisfaction. Contact us anytime for free estimates, advice, and assistance.

The Difference Between the Big Brown Bat and Little Brown Bat

Posted on March 24, 2020 by virginia

Although they may look a lot alike, and they are both part of the Vespertilionidae family, the Big Brown bat and the Little Brown bat are two completely separate species in a different genus. When you scroll down the scientific classification of both species, they have the same Kingdom (Animalia), Phylum (Chordata), Class (Mammalia), Order (Chiroptera), and even Family (Vespertilionidae). But once you reach the genus, they separate.

Continue reading to learn where and some facts that make them unique in their own right!

The Big Brown Bat (Eptesicus fuscus)

The Big Brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus) is part of the Eptesicus genus and fucus species. Adults have an average wingspan of 13 to 16 inches, and a body length of 3 1/2 to 5 1/2 inches. They are a little bigger as you can see! The rest of their biology and behaviors are the same, with just slight differences.

Their fur is the same as Little Brown bats, ranging in colors from dark browns to reddish hues and lighter-colored bellies. Gestation periods and breeding are the same for both species, as well. Females carry their young for 60 days, before giving birth to a single bat pup each year.

Mating season usually begins in early fall, while birthing season starts in May and continues through June. After 14 days in their mother’s care, bat pups are weaned from milk and taught to fly and hunt for insects. In contrast to Little Brown bats, Big Brown bats tend to roost in smaller colonies, ranging from as little as 20 bats, up to 500 or more.

The Little Brown Bat (Myotis lucifugus)

Little Brown bats are part of the Myotis genus and lucifugus species. Adults have an average wingspan of 9 to 11 inches, and a body length of 2 1/2 to 4 inches. They are small! Their fur ranges in colors of dark browns to reddish browns, with lighter-colored, pale tan bellies. Females carry their young for 60 days, before giving birth to a single bat pup each year.

Mating season usually begins in early fall, while birthing season starts in May and continues through July. After 14 days in their mother’s care, bat pups are weaned from milk and taught to fly and hunt for insects. Little Brown bats, like all bats, are nocturnal, which means they are active from dusk until dawn. Generally, this bat species remains in large numbers, with colonies reaching hundreds or even thousands of bats in some regions.

Typically, Little Brown bats roost in hollowed tree cavities, abandoned mines, caves, log piles, and similar private areas. They are a hibernating species, so in winter, they either migrate to winter roosts, or hibernate in caves, rock crevices, storm sewers, and if they can access them, our attics! As insectivores, Little Brown bats hunt for mosquitoes, gnats, moths, crane flies, beetles, mayflies, and other small flying insects. A single bat can consume more than 1,000 flying bugs in just one night!

Where to Get Humane Virginia Bat Control Near You

Top 3 Traits of a Microbat

Posted on February 17, 2020 by virginia

Bats are mammals that are a part of the Chiroptera order. The word “Chiroptera” is derived from the Greek word “hand-wing” in reference to a bat’s webbed hand-like wings. Chiroptera is the scientific classification of bats. There are thousands of bat species all over the world, but all species can fall under one of two main categories, Microchiroptera and Megachiroptera; colloquially referred to as microbats and megabats. Although recent evidence more so supports the division of bat species into Yinpterochiroptera and Yangochiroptera, it is still very common to use the terms microbat and megabat.

But since we don’t see any megabats in Virginia, continue reading to learn the top 3 traits of a microbat!

Virginian Bat Species

Here in Virginia, we have microbat populations. Three species of bat in Virginia are Federally-endangered, and include the Gray Bat (Myotis grisescens), Indiana Bat (Myotis sodalist), and the Virginia Big-Eared Bat (Corynorhinus townsendii virginianus). In addition, there are 12 non-game protected species of bat found in Virginia, including the Eastern Small-footed Bat, Northern Long-eared Bat, Eastern Pipistrelle Bat, Silver-haired Bat, Eastern Red Bat, Hoary Bat, Seminole Bat, American Long-Eared Bat, Lump-Nosed Bat, Ozark Big-Eared Bat, Townsend’s Big-Eared Bat, and the Northern Myotis.

Although there are 15 species of microbat in our state, each species exhibits common microbat traits. The top three traits are ones that all microbat share, regardless of species: small, omnivorous, and echolocating.

? Small

Microbats are not called micro because they are big! Microbats are small in stature and size, which is why they are so good at finding places to roost. The average microbat can fit through an opening or crack as small as 3/8^th of an inch. That is equivalent to the thickness of a pencil eraser! Take the Virginia Big-Eared Bat for example; although it is one of the largest Microchiroptera species in its range, it still only weighs an average of 7 to 12 grams (0.25 to 0.42 ounces).

? Insectivorous

Microbats are insectivores, which means they strictly eat bugs. They mostly dine on flying ones, like mosquitoes, flies, gnats, moths, wasps, and bees. They also will consume termites, dragonflies, grasshoppers, and beetles. A single bat can consume more than its own body weight in insects, in just one single evening. That’s an average of 1,000 insects or more.

? Echolocating

Microbats use echolocation, much like dolphins and whales. Echolocation is a natural biological sonar ability that works by measuring the returning echoes of emitted signals that bounce off surrounding objects. Bats are not blind, but they use echolocation because it gives them a superior advantage when it comes to hunting and diving for prey at night.

Got Nuisance Bat Problems in Virginia?

Contact Virginia Bat Pros at 804-729-9097 for safe and humane bat removal and control at a fair price. Regardless of the size or scope of your bat abatement and cleanup needs, we have the experience and resources necessary to remedy your bat problem in no time at all. Our professionals are focused on safe and effective results, but more importantly, our client’s complete satisfaction. Contact us anytime for free estimates, advice, and assistance.