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	Bats

Bats
-by Dennis M. Ferraro Extension Educator Douglas/Sarpy Extension Unit

Bats are very misunderstood creatures. While the public perceives them as an evil menace, they are actually very gentle animals that need to be respected not needlessly destroyed.
There are seven species of bats found in Nebraska. The big brown bat, Eptesicus fuscus, is found throughout the state and is commonly encountered by the public. This bat is about five inches long from nose to tail. As its name suggests, this species is brown with darker brown skin exposed on the nose, ears and wings. The underside is a pale brown color.
Bats normally live in hollow trees, under loose bark and in cracks of rocky ledges. However, in urban areas they frequently utilize attics or areas behind shutters, downspouts and even in storm sewers.
These bats feed exclusively on insects, devouring more mosquitoes and other insects than birds and bug zappers.
To take advantage of a bats'  insect eating habits consider building bat houses in the yard. While there are several bat house designs, all seem to have the same appeal to the common big brown bat. The simplest bat house is easily made (see figure). Rough up the interior of the box with a course file or router to allow the bat to climb. Stain or paint the house a darker color and fasten securely to the south side of a building or tree. It may be placed 12-18 feet above ground.
Young bats usually find their way into houses in the early evening hours. This happens accidentally when the bats are seeking shelter or hiding places. They can enter through openings as small as one half inch in diameter. They are not capable of making their own entries. Therefore plugging all and any holes is very important. Bats do not act offensively, and once indoors will try to escape to the outside. If a bat becomes trapped in the house, open exterior doors and windows and use a broom to direct the animal outdoors.
There are no chemical controls registered for use against bats. Mothballs and ultrasound devices have not been proven effective.