Diseases & Lifespan

Bat Diseases & Lifespan

Central Michigan Bat Removal Specialist

While we all know (or most of us, at any rate) that vampires are mythical beings, false information gathered from media or TV about bats has led many people to believe these creatures are incredibly harmful and carriers of the dreaded rabies disease. In reality, only a small percentage of bats carry rabies. That being said, if you notice an active bat in the daytime, or one that is unable to fly, this bat is more likely to carry rabies than other bats. Since the fraction of recent U.S. cases of rabies in humans has primarily been caused by bats, it is very important to be aware of the proper information to maintain the safety of your family, employees, visiting friends, and pets.

The problem is that although many people automatically assume that bats have rabies, they are unaware of the other diseases that bats, along with their waste products, can carry. It is crucial to have the right knowledge about the hazards of bat diseases and bat lifespans, so you know the extent of damage which can be caused by handling a bat on your own. Always call one of our professional Michigan bat removal specialists from Varmint Evictors, Inc. who can safely remove bats from your property.

Call our Grand Rapids bat control experts today (989) 268-7666 to learn the real information about bats to keep you and your household safe from harm.

Health Hazards Caused by Bats

Many people associate bats as varmints that carry rabies. While this is certainly possible, there are other hazards you need to be aware of as well.

Some of the most common bat-associated health hazards besides rabies include:

  • Histoplasmosis – Caused by a fungus that affects both humans and animals, this disease is carried through airborne spores that have been contaminated from "guano" or bat droppings. When people or animals inhale the spores, which are especially numerous after a roost has been disturbed, they fall ill to a disease that often has symptoms like the flu. Though on many occasions, infections are mild, in some cases, histoplasmosis can lead to pneumonia, blood abnormalities, terrible fevers, and even death.
  • Parasites – Bat bugs are the most common type of parasite that cling to bats. Resembling bedbugs, these parasites can infiltrate your home, wreaking a lot of havoc. Usually, bat bugs are found in cracks where bats have roosted. Once bats have been removed, these bugs remain behind, and can turn to biting humans and animals since their original hosts have disappeared.

Lifecycle of Bats

In Michigan, the most common bats are called "Little Brown Bats." These bats usually roost in roof spaces and beneath shingles, ceilings, attics, and even behind siding or trim of barns and other buildings. While their name may sound cute, a Little Brown Bat colony often that starts off with a dozen family members can soon grow to several thousand bats in a short time, if they are left unattended. Moreover, these bats have lifespans of up to 31 years. These bats often cohabitate with Big Brown Bats, a species that can cause even more extensive property damage, in addition to risking the health of your family, employees, and pets.

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Don't let unwelcome wildlife visitors make a home in your property. Call Varmint Evictors, Inc. at (989) 268-7666 or fill out our online form to get in touch!

Hear From Our Happy Customers

At Varmint Evictors, Inc., your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our customers have to say about working with us.

    “Definitely Recommend”
    This is a family run business. They were super helpful, informative, and worked quickly. There is a 2 year warranty for his work which I appreciate. I enjoyed James and his son. Would definitely recommend them for anyone with a bat problem.
    - Stephanie L.
    “Very Professional”
    We had a bat in our house and my husband reached out to James and he was out within a few days. They inspected the house, made a plan and were out within a week to get everything taken care of! James is very professional and good at his job. I highly recommend this business if you experience varmint problems!
    - Jozzie A.
    “Went Above and Beyond”
    James was very professional really educated myself about the bats! I would definitely recommend him to anyone! He was very prompt! He not only came out and fixed the problem with the bats getting on my house but went above and beyond what was expected of him … He made several trips to ensure the job was done right!! Thank you so much for your time!!!!
    - Lisa Z.
    “Friendly, Knowledgeable and Responsive!”
    Had Varmint Evictors take care of our bat problems a couple of years ago. Recently noticed some roosting evidence on outside and James was out the next day to inspect and make sure we didn't have any in the attic. Friendly, knowledgeable and responsive. Absolutely recommend!
    - Scott L.
    “Highly Recommend”
    I had Bats in my attic. Needed them removed and cleaned up. They came out inspected my attic. Made a plan. They got rid of the bats. Cleaned the attic. Removed all bad insulation. Replaced it. Start to finish did it all. I would highly recommend them.
    - Don W.
    “Thanks James!”
    We had bats in our garage of our cottage and in the attic. I called James at varmint evictors and he was there within a day or two and took care of our problem. Within about a week our bats were gone and no more messes and no more noises. Thanks James! I would highly recommend your service to anybody.
    - Judi s.
    “Friendly, Knowledgeable & Efficient”
    What a relief it was to find someone who could take care of our wildlife problems. James & Gage were friendly, knowledgeable & efficient. I would highly recommend this company.
    - Elisabeth H.
    “Thank you for your service!”
    Best critter control company in Grand Rapids, James is super informative, and educates his clients on different wildlife species and tips that can help you learn more about the animals. Thank you for your service you’re wonderful at what you do!
    - Elonda W.

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