Why you shouldn’t worry about Bats
- Viktor Mr Bin
- Aug 4
- 3 min read
This week we’re taking a look at bats. Bats often get a bad press and people can be wary, or even scared, of bats but bats are a protected species and so it is important for the public to be aware of this and to understand that you can live in harmony with your bats.
The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 provides protection for all species of bat found in the United Kingdom.
Signs you may have Bats
Many householders go for years unaware they have bats. Signs of bats can include:
Bat droppings on windows, walls or sills.
Bats may be visible on ridge beams inside the roof void and often tucked away from sight.
Chattering sounds bats make at dusk before flying out to feed.
During Summer months you may see bats emerging when they come out to feed around dusk time.
What Should You Do If You Suspect Bats in Your Home?
Don’t disturb them or block entry points.
Contact your local bat group or the Bat Conservation Trust.
Seek professional advice if you're planning renovation work near a bat roost.
The important thing to remember is not to disturb your bats. Do NOT shine lights up at the ridge to look for them.
Why you Must Not Touch, or Disturb Bats
It is illegal to kill, or even disturb, bats in their roost. Bats can only be handled by those with a license to do so.
Won’t Bats cause damage to my property?
Bats aren’t rodents so they don’t gnaw wire, pipes, insulation or wood. They don’t build nests or bring prey into their roost. Bats are clean animals.
Tips for living with Bats
You should cover your water tank to prevent any bats from drowning.
Cover any stored items with a dust sheet (but not plastic) to protect items from bat droppings.
If you have cats, bring them in for the night half an hour before sunset so that bats can emerge from their roosts undisturbed.
NEVER try to catch a flying bat, it is likely that you will cause serious injury to it and you may even receive a bite in self-defence! Visit www.bats.org.uk for information about living with bats and advice and tips on wildlife-friendly gardening, bat boxes and how to identify bat species.
Are you having a problem with Bats?
If you are having a problem with bats or you’ve come across an injured bat, you should contact The Bat Conservation Trust or call their helpline on 0345 1300 228. They will give you advice and they can arrange for a specialist to visit your property to advise you on the best course of action, where necessary.
FAQs about Bats
Q: Are bats protected in the UK?
A: Yes. All bat species and their roosts are protected by law under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017.
Q: Can pest control remove bats?
A: Pest controllers cannot remove bats without a licence. You must contact organisations like Natural England for advice if bats are roosting in your property.
Q: Do bats pose a health risk?
A: Bats in the UK rarely carry rabies. While the risk is very low, it’s advised not to handle them directly.
Q: What signs indicate bats in the loft?
A: Common signs include droppings, squeaking sounds at dusk, or spotting them flying in/out around sunset.
Q: Will bats damage my home?
A: No. Bats do not gnaw on materials or cause structural damage like rodents.
Need Help After a Bat Roost Has Moved On?
While bats don’t cause damage like rodents, they can leave behind mess in your loft space. If you're left with droppings or debris after a roost has moved on, our Loft Clearance service can help restore your loft to a safe, clean condition. We safely remove waste, disinfect affected areas, and make the space usable again.
If you’re unsure whether the noise in your loft is caused by bats or something more destructive like rats or mice, our Rodent Control specialists can inspect the space and resolve any rodent issues quickly, using safe and humane methods.
About PGM Pest Control
PGM Pest Control is an award-winning pest control company based in the UK, offering trusted, effective, and environmentally responsible services for homes and businesses accross all towns and villages across Herefordshire and Worcestershire.
Known for our expert knowledge, educational resources, and excellent customer service, we go beyond treatments — we help our clients understand pests and prevent future problems.
👉 You can email PGM & Son Pest Control Services at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk
or call us on 01981 540088.
For out of hours use our for emergency 24-hour callout number 07964 370480 or use our contact us page on the website for a free no-obligation quote.
