When Should a Bat Be Captured and Tested for Rabies?

Posted on April 24, 2019 by virginia

Bats are known carriers of several infectious diseases. One of the most dangerous diseases that can be transmitted by bats is the Rabies virus. Upon contracting the disease, victims are left with no recourse, as there is no cure for rabies. For this reason, anyone or any pet suspected of being bitten by a bat should seek immediate medical attention.

Continue reading to learn what you should know about bats and rabies, including when bats should be captured and tested for this fatal virus.

Virginia Bat Removal and Control 804-729-9097

The Virginia Department of Health

The Virginia Department of Health recommends to capture a bat and have it tested for the Rabies virus if one is ever found indoors where people and pets reside. Keep in mind that less than .5% of the entire bat population is actually infected with Rabies, however, it is still a risk to be cautious about. Treat all bats as if they have Rabies, and avoid them at all costs. At the same time, it is vital that you never attempt to harm, kill, or trap a bat under any circumstances. Some species are federally-endangered, and therefore, protected under law. See our blog, “Federally Endangered Species of Bat in Virginia” to learn which ones.

Recognizing Bats in the House

One of the most common signs of bat presence in a house, and often the initial once notice, is hearing strange noises in the walls or ceilings, such as squeaking, chirping, and chattering. You may also hear fluttering noises from their wings as they shuffle around their roosting area. Also, visually spotting bat guano (dropping) or actual bats, is another tell-tale sign that bats are inside. Additional signs include oil stains around entry points, foul odors lingering indoors, and yellow and brown-like stains on ceilings and walls. Read our blog, “The Top Three Signs that You Have Bats in the House” for help.

How to Capture a Bat

If you find a bat in the house, first get all people and pets to a guarded room. Your next step is to contact a local and licensed Virginia bat removal and control company for emergency bat extraction service. It might help to read our blog, “State Laws Surrounding Wild Bats” to understand why you should never attempt to tamper or interfere with bats under any circumstances.

Virginia Bat Removal and Control

Call Virginia Bat Pros at 804-729-9097 for safe and humane bat removal and control assistance in Old Dominion. We serve all of Virginia and its surrounding areas. We offer 24 hour bat removal, as well as, numerous residential and commercial bat exclusion services, such as bat cleanup and restorations for bat damages. We even provide insurance work! Contact us today for a free estimate.

Federally Endangered Species of Bat in Virginia

Posted on April 15, 2019 by virginia

Here in Virginia, there are 16 known bat-species. Of these numbers, 3 in particular are listed as Federally-endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and therefore, protected under the Endangered Species Act. Continue reading to learn more about this species, and what you can do to help support their preservation.

The Endangered Species Act

The 3 Federally-endangered species that are protected under the Endangered Species Act include the Gray Bat, Indiana bat, and the Virginia Big-Eared bat. Under this act, it is a Federal offense (also known as a felony) to “harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect, or to attempt to engage in any such conduct” any endangered or threatened species. This citation comes straight from the Endangered Species Act. Read our blog, “State Laws Surrounding Wild Bats” to learn about the laws that govern non-endangered bats. For now, here is a brief explanation of each Federally-endangered bat species found here in Virginia:

Gray Bat

The Gray bat is part of the Animalia kingdom, Chordata phylum, Mammalia class, and Chiroptera order. Their scientific name, Myotis grisescens, is derived from their genus (Myotis), and species (M. grisescens). Since 1976, they have also listed as federally endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. When initially placed on the list, there were an estimated 2 million; and through successful conservation efforts, they are now estimated to be around 2.3 million and counting.

Indiana Bat

The Gray bat is part of the Animalia kingdom, Chordata phylum, Mammalia class, and Chiroptera order. Their scientific name, Myotis sodalis, is derived from their genus (Myotis), and species (M. sodalis). Although this species was initially added to the list in 1967, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, decline rates of these populations have been estimated to be more than 50% over the past 10 years. They are also protected by the Federal Cave Resources Protection Act.

Virginia Big-Eared Bat

The Virginia Big-Eared bat is part of the Animalia kingdom, Chordata phylum, Mammalia class, and Chiroptera order. Their scientific name, Corynorhinus townsendii virginianus, is derived from their genus (Corynorhinus), species (C. townsendii), and subspecies (C. t. virginianus). As evident in their scientific classification, this species is one of two endangered subspecies of the Townsend’s big-eared bat. Read our blog, “Get to Know Our State Bat” to learn details about their range, habitat, diet, and more.

In Virginia, the Rafinesque Big-eared Bat (also known as the Southeastern Big-eared Bat) is state-endangered. We will discuss this more in our next blog, so be sure to check back soon!

Bat Threats

Right now, the biggest threat to these endangered bat populations is a fatal disease known as White Nose Syndrome. Read our blog, “Facts About White-Nose Syndrome and Bats” to learn more. Aside from this disease, additional threats include over-development of land, wildlife habitat destruction, and illegal hunting. There are many reasons to support local bat populations, regardless if they are endangered or not. That is because bats provide us with so many advantages. Read our blog, “How to Safely Support Local Bat Colonies” to learn how you can do your part to encourage bat conservation.

Where to Get Licensed Bat Removal in Virginia

Contact Virginia Bat Pros at 804-729-9097 for safe and humane bat removal and control at a fair price. Regardless of the size or scope of your bat abatement and cleanup needs, we have the experience and resources necessary to remedy your bat problem in no time at all. Our professionals are focused on safe and effective results, but more importantly, our client’s complete satisfaction. Contact us anytime for free estimates, advice, and assistance.

Get to Know Our State Bat!

Posted on April 2, 2019 by virginia

Did you know we have a state bat here in the Old Dominion? The Virginia big-eared bat (Corynorhinus townsendii virginianus) was officially appointed the prestigious title 14 years ago, and continues to be an admired and protected species, both locally and nationally, to this very day. As a proud Virginian, continue reading to learn more about our merry friend, the Virginia big-eared bat!

Virginia Bat Control Company — The Virginia Big-Eared Bat

The Virginia Big-Eared Bat
(Corynorhinus townsendii virginianus)

The Virginia big-eared bat is scientifically known as Corynorhinus townsendii virginianus, as it belongs to the Corynorhinus genus, and is a subspecies of the Townsend’s big-eared bat. Here is the breakdown of their specific classification:

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Chiroptera
Family: Vespertilionidae
Genus: Corynorhinus
Species: C. townsendii
Subspecies: C. t. virginianus
Trinomial Name: Corynorhinus townsendii virginianus
“Handley, 1955”

As for appearance, this special species is distinguishable by its large ears, which can reach lengths of 2.5 centimeters or more. When resting, their ears reach back to half the length of their body! In addition to their most distinguishable trait, these mammals have long, soft, brown fur that ranges in shade depending on their age. Weighing and average of 7 to 12 grams (0.25 to 0.42 ounces), it is one of the largest Microchiroptera species in its range. With rounded muzzle and elongated nostrils, the Virginia Big-Eared bat can grow to 98 millimeters (3.85 inches) long by adult hood.

Range, Habitat & Diet

Virginia big-eared bats range consists of eastern Kentucky, eastern West Virginia, southwestern Virginia, and northwestern North Carolina. As for habitat, they are mostly found dwelling in the limestone caves of western Virginia since they provide the proper temperature and humidity levels vital to their survival; but they are also commonly found in heavily vegetated oak-hickory or beech-maple-hemlock forests.

Like most microbats, Virginia big-eared bats eat an insectivorous diet. This particular species seems to really prefer Lepidoptera, which are a classification of insects that include moths and butterflies. They also consume thousands of mosquitoes, flies, gnats, and more. Read our blog, “Learn How Bats are Nature’s Pesticide” to learn how this benefits us personally and universally.

Conservation Status

Since 1979, the US Fish and Wildlife Service has categorized the Virginia big-eared bat as an endangered species, which makes it highly protected under state and federal law. According to Loab’s ‘Conservation and Management of Eastern Big-Eared Bats’ study, an estimated 77% increase in the Virginia big-eared bat populations took place between 1983 and 2009, which is great news; but we are not out of the hole just yet.

Virginia big-eared bats require the utmost respect and attention in terms of conservation efforts. As an avid reader, you already know the importance bats have on our local Eco-systems and economies, so be sure to do your part to help preserve this special species. Read our blog, “How to Safely Support Local Bat Colonies” to learn how to be a bat supporter.

Nuisance Bat Removal and Control

Virginia Bat Removal and Control 804-729-9097

Sometimes bats can be a nuisance, even though they don’t mean to be. When this happens, trust a licensed and insured Virginia bat removal company for safe and humane bat abatement service at an affordable price. Contact Virginia Bat Pros today at 804-729-9097 to request a free estimate or information about our services, prices, and more. We look forward to delivering affordable and long-lasting solutions for your bat problems!