While we appreciate their mosquito-munching talents, sometimes bats overstay their welcome in our homes. Good news! Fall is the perfect time to evict those unwanted houseguests, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is here to help you do it legally and humanely.
Bat maternity season ended on August 15th, meaning those adorable, but sometimes noisy, bat pups are now grown up and able to find their own roosts. This is important because it’s illegal to evict bats during maternity season, as it could trap flightless babies inside.
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From now until April 15th, you can use exclusion devices to encourage your bat roommates to find alternative accommodations. These devices allow bats to exit but prevent them from returning. Remember, harming or killing bats is illegal in Florida.
Why Bats are Our Buddies (Mostly)
Before you start evicting, remember that bats are vital to our ecosystem and economy. They’re expert pest controllers, pollinators, and seed dispersers. A single bat can devour hundreds of insects in a single night!
How You Can Help Bats (from a Safe Distance)
- Spread the word: Share your newfound bat knowledge with friends and family.
- Be a bat landlord: Preserve natural roosting sites on your property or install a bat house.
- Join the Bat Force: Volunteer with the FWC or participate in bat counts.
- Report any bat concerns: If you see unusual bat behavior, sick or dead bats, report it to MyFWC.com/BatMortality.
So, if you’re sharing your living space with bats and want them to find a new “bat cave,” now’s the time to act! Just remember to do it responsibly and follow the FWC guidelines for a peaceful and legal eviction.
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