When people hear the word bat, they either think of baseball or Dracula! Bats, the animals with leathery wings and tiny, sharp teeth, can strike fear into the hearts of many. This fear partly stems from the myth that all bats drink blood like the vampire bats in Dracula movies. In reality, only three species of bats in the world feed on blood, and they live in South America. These fascinating mammals help to support life on earth: protecting crops, pollinating flowers, and reducing the need for chemical treatments.
Natural Pest Control Experts
One of the main benefits of bats is their ability to eat large numbers of insects. Around 70% of the world’s 1,000+ bat species are insectivores, meaning they rely on insects for food. The remaining species may feed on nectar, fruit, lizards, birds, frogs, or fish. All 13 bat species found in Florida are insect-eaters, and a single bat can consume up to 3,000 bugs in one night. This includes moths, beetles, flies, and mosquitoes, which can damage crops or become a nuisance around homes.
Because bats feed at night, they go after insects that are active when other predators are not. With fewer pests around, there’s often less need for chemical pest control. This natural way of keeping insect numbers down helps protect your property and supports a more balanced ecosystem.
Special Pollinators
Besides being natural pest controllers, bats help to pollinate plants and spread fruit seeds (carried in their nutrient-rich guano). As the only mammals capable of actual flight, their wings, which are structured like hands with elongated fingers, allow them to move skillfully from flower to flower. As some species feed on nectar, they inadvertently carry pollen on their bodies, transferring it. This helps flowers and other plants reproduce, a process that’s vital for maintaining biodiversity.
Bats also contribute to plant growth by spreading seeds through their guano (droppings), which is rich in nutrients. Bats help to bridge the gap where few other nighttime pollinators exist. Their work supports healthy ecosystems and helps native plants thrive in the areas they inhabit.
Beneficial Impact on the Environment and Economy
The combined efforts of bats to control bugs and support plant life bring both environmental and financial benefits. Their presence supports healthier crops, fewer pests, and stronger local economies. Because they eat so many insects, bats help lower costs for farmers and businesses. With fewer pests damaging crops, they may not need to apply as much synthetic fertilizer, which can save money and reduce the environmental impact of pesticides and insecticides. Moreover, other businesses that rely on clean, pest-controlled spaces, like restaurants with al fresco dining, may also benefit, as long as the bats stay outside and don’t roost on their premises!
Beyond helping businesses, bats play an important role in keeping insect populations under control around your yard and neighborhood. Without bats, insects could multiply and cause damage to plants in your garden or spread diseases that affect your family and pets. By protecting bats, you support a natural way to reduce pests. However they shouldn’t reside in your home.
If you find bats in your eaves or attic, Florida Pest Control can help to get rid of infestations, discreetly, humanely, and with sensitivity.
Do You Require Bat Control Services?
As you can see, bats aren’t the bad guys they’re made out to be. Nevertheless, they can become a nuisance when roosting indoors. While most bats prefer trees or caves, when these are not available, they will take up residence in buildings and you may need exclusion services to manage the problem.
If you’re dealing with bats, we can help. Our local technicians have extensive experience and use humane techniques to remove bats safely and carefully. We work to protect your space while also respecting local wildlife. Contact Florida Pest Control to learn more about how our bat exterminators can help.
