Pro Tip: Bats Around the Cottage – What to Do and When
Here at the lake, bats are more help than harm — one bat can eat thousands of mosquitoes each night! They’re protected and play a vital role in keeping insect populations down. But when they move into cottages or sheds, it’s time for some gentle eviction. Here’s how to keep them out — and help them find a better home nearby.
🦇Understanding Bats🦇
- Bats are protected species and are essential insect controllers.
• Most active from spring through early fall; they hibernate or migrate in winter.
• They roost in quiet, dark areas like attics, soffits, or sheds — not to attack or nest like birds.
Keeping Bats Out of Buildings
- **Inspect and Seal at the Right Time** – Check at dusk to spot exit points. Seal only after they leave for the season (late August–September). Never seal in June or July when pups can’t yet fly.2. **Use One-Way Excluders** – Mesh tubes or netting that let bats exit but not re-enter. Leave in place for 3–7 days before sealing.3. **Avoid Poisons or Traps** – These are illegal, inhumane, and can cause odor problems.4. **Try Lights and Fans** – Bright lights or steady airflow make attics less inviting.5. **Ultrasonic Devices** – May work short-term but not reliable long-term.
Coexisting with Bats
- **Install a Bat House** – Mount 12–20 ft high, facing south or southeast, near water. A great alternative roost spot.7. **Safety First** – Never handle bats bare-handed. Contact health authorities if bitten or scratched.8. **Control Insects Naturally** – Reduce outdoor lights and standing water to make your property less attractive to insects (and thus bats).
Best Timing for the Prairies
- Exclusion/sealing window: late August–early September
• Avoid disturbance: May–July (maternity season)
• Install bat houses: April–early May
👉 Bats are lake-friendly neighbors — keep them out of your attic but welcome them outdoors where they belong!
👉Build a Bat House – plan from the Canadian Wildlife Federation
CSquared Hardware – Silton, SK • c2sk.ca • (306) 731-2411