Bats are considered one of the most commonly reported animals to have rabies. It is important to remember that not all bats have rabies, although, like all wildlife, it is important to admire them from a safe distance.
How to keep bats out of your home
Some bat species can fit through an opening as small as 16 millimetres.
You should:
- Seal any openings where bats can get in (e.g., chimneys, building corners, pipes that penetrate ceilings or wall, between shingles)
- Do this work from October to March, when bats are hibernating elsewhere or after you’re sure no bats are roosting in the house
How to get a bat out of your home
- Leave the bat alone and create a way out through an open window or door
- If the bat is in the attic, create a disturbance (shining bright lights, playing loud music, using an ultrasonic device, etc.) so it will leave
- Keep the disturbance in place until you can seal openings where they enter
- Leave the room and allow the bat to leave on its own
- You can call pest control experts who can humanely capture and release bats
How to prevent rabies exposure from bats
- Always wear gloves and other protective clothing when dealing with a bat
- Warn children to stay away from bats and to report any contact with them to your healthcare provider or Public Health Nursing immediately
- If you come in direct contact with a bat, you should contact your healthcare provider or Public Health Nursing immediately
- If your pet is in contact with a bat, contact your veterinarian immediately
Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative - Bats and Rabies: Separating Fact from Fiction
Prevent Conflict with Bats - Ontario
