Bat in Your House? Don't Panic.
Having a bat flying through your home is stressful, but the bat is just as frightened as you are. Keep these quick facts in mind:
It just wants out- The bat isn't looking to attack; it’s simply lost and disoriented.
They aren't aggressive- Bats only bite in defense if grabbed or mishandled.
Bites are preventable- Their tiny (1/16") teeth cannot pierce thick leather gloves or denim.
Low disease risk- Less than 1% of bats carry rabies, though caution is always necessary.
Humane removal is safest- Contain the bat in one room, close the door, and let an expert handle it.
Need immediate help?
Michigan Bat Control specializes in safe, poison-free extraction to protect both your family and the wildlife.
If you must handle the situation before our technicians arrive, please review our DIY removal guide below. Never attempt removal without wearing heavy leather work gloves.
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What to Do If You Find a Bat in Your House
If a bat has entered your home, your family's safety is the immediate priority. Because bat bites are incredibly small and easily missed, it is crucial to assess the risk of rabies exposure—even if direct contact seems unlikely.
When to Seek Medical Attention & Test the Bat
If any of the following scenarios apply, assume exposure has occurred, seek medical advice immediately, and prepare to safely capture the bat for rabies testing:
The bat was found in a room where someone was sleeping.
Young children who cannot easily communicate were present.
A family dog or cat had access to the bat.
How to Safely Catch a Bat
If exposure is possible, do not release the bat outside. Most local health departments will take the secured bat to test it for rabies. Use the adjacent image and the video below as a visual guide, and follow these steps:
Observe: Keep a close eye on the bat until it tires out and lands. They will usually cling to a wall, curtain, or soft material.
Cover: Carefully place a small box, plastic tub, or coffee can completely over the resting bat.
Scoop: Slide a piece of thick paper or stiff cardboard between the container and the wall, gently trapping the bat inside.
Secure: Keep the cardboard firmly in place to keep the bat secured until you can hand it over for testing.
Note: If you are absolutely certain no human or pet came into contact with the bat, you can use this same method to carry the container outside, remove the cardboard, and release it. However, if there is any doubt, capturing it for testing is highly recommended.
Why is There a Bat in My House?
Finding a bat inside rarely means it just flew through an open door. Most likely, a colony is already roosting in your attic, walls, or chimney, and one simply lost its way.
Signs You Have a Hidden Colony:
Scratching Sounds- Noises coming from inside your walls or ceilings.
Droppings (Guano)- Often found in the attic, looking like large mouse droppings.
Roofline Activity- Bats entering or exiting gaps near your roof at dusk.
Repeat Visitors- Previously removed bats trying to find a way back inside.
What to Do Next:
If you suspect an infestation, get a professional inspection immediately—before the colony doubles or triples in size!
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Why Choose a Local Bat Exclusion Professional?
We are a private, for-hire wildlife firm based right here in Southeast Michigan. Unlike standard pest control companies that rely on temporary fixes or harmful sprays, we prioritize humane, chemical-free exclusion methods. Since bats play a vital role in our local ecosystem, our goal isn't to harm them—it's to safely usher them out and seal your home so they cannot return.
Protect your home and your health. Whether you have a single bat in the living space or a colony established in your attic, our local experts provide the specialized, long-term solutions you need to reclaim your home safely and permanently.
FAQ's About Bats in Your House
