Bats of the Inland Empire

Bats, often shrouded in myth and misconception, play a vital role in our Inland Empire ecosystem. In fact, they can be great helps in pest control! While some people may fear them, understanding their behavior and ecological importance can foster a greater appreciation for these fascinating creatures. This post focuses on the bats of Riverside and San Bernardino counties in California, exploring their habitats, diets, and the potential risks they pose to humans and animals.

Bat Species of the Inland Empire

Riverside and San Bernardino counties, with their diverse landscapes ranging from arid deserts to mountainous regions, provide habitat for a variety of bat species. Some of the most commonly encountered bats include:

The Mexican Free-tailed Bat (Tadarida brasiliensis) is one of the most abundant bat species in North America. They are known for their large colonies, often numbering in the thousands, and their high-altitude flight.

The Big Brown Bat (Eptesicus fuscus) is a relatively large bat found throughout North America. They are adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, including urban areas.

The California Myotis (Myotis californicus) is a small bat species commonly found in western North America. They prefer forested areas and roost in tree cavities and rock crevices.

The Yuma Myotis (Myotis yumanensis) is another small bat species found in arid and semi-arid regions of the western United States. They often roost in caves, mines, and buildings near water sources.

Pallid bats (Antrozous pallidus) are larger bats with pale fur. They are unique in that they often glean insects from surfaces rather than catching them in flight.

Bat Habitats and Diets

Bats occupy a wide range of habitats in the Inland Empire. They roost in caves, mines, rock crevices, tree cavities, and even human-made structures like attics, barns, and under bridges. Their choice of roosting site depends on the species and the availability of suitable shelter.

The vast majority of bats in this region are insectivores, meaning their diet consists primarily of insects. They are highly efficient predators, consuming large quantities of mosquitoes, moths, beetles, and other insects each night. This makes them a valuable natural form of pest control. Some bat species, like the pallid bat, may also consume scorpions and other arthropods.

Potential Dangers to Humans and Animals

While bats provide valuable ecological services, they can also pose some risks to humans and animals:

Rabies: Bats are known carriers of rabies, a viral disease that affects the central nervous system. However, the incidence of rabies in bats is relatively low. It is important to avoid handling bats, especially if they appear sick or disoriented. If you are bitten by a bat, seek immediate medical attention.

Histoplasmosis: This respiratory infection is caused by a fungus that grows in bat droppings (guano). Inhaling airborne fungal spores can cause flu-like symptoms. Cleaning large accumulations of bat guano should be done with caution, wearing protective gear such as a respirator.

Bat Bugs: These are parasites closely related to bed bugs that feed on bat blood. While they typically prefer bats as hosts, they may occasionally bite humans if bats are roosting in a home.

Droppings (Guano): Accumulations of bat guano can create unpleasant odors and attract other pests. In large quantities, it can also damage building materials.

Protecting Yourself and Your Property:

The best way to minimize the risks associated with bats is to prevent them from roosting in your home or other structures. This can be achieved by:

• Sealing any cracks and openings in your home’s exterior, including around windows, doors, and vents.
• Ensuring that screens on windows and doors are intact.
• Covering chimneys and other large openings.

If bats are already roosting in your home, it is best to contact a professional wildlife removal service. They have the expertise and equipment to safely and humanely remove bats and prevent them from returning. It’s important to avoid attempting to remove bats yourself, as this can increase the risk of exposure to rabies and other health hazards. Bats are an important part of our local ecosystem, and understanding their role is key to coexisting peacefully. If you need assistance after a bat has taken up residence in or around your home or business, call us at 909-335-1486 or click here to request pest control service.