Damage Identification

Although bats cause little damage to buildings, their presence is usually unwanted. Bat droppings and urine have a strong, persistent odor that attracts other bats if the area is not properly cleaned. CAUTION: If any amount of bat droppings are present, wear a dust mask while cleaning to avoid breathing fine dust particles from disturbed droppings. Histoplasmosis is an airborne disease caused by a microscopic soil fungus, Histoplasma capsulatum, which affects the lungs of humans.

Noise is another problem bats cause inside buildings. Many bats create noise that can be disturbing to humans. Occasionally, a bat may get into the living area of a house. While this is often disconcerting to the occupants, it doesn't have to be. The bat will often leave at dusk if doors or windows are left open. Do not try to capture the bat unless you are wearing heavy leather gloves or using a net.