Brazilian Free-Tailed Bat

Brazilian Free-Tailed Bat

Tadarida brasiliensis

wildlife

How to Identify

Brazilian free-tailed bats are medium-sized bats with dark brown fur, long narrow wings, and a distinctive tail that extends beyond the tail membrane. They have wrinkled lips and large ears, and their flight is fast and direct. Their bodies are typically 3-4 inches long, with a wingspan of 11-14 inches.

Signs of Infestation

A strong ammonia-like odor, accumulation of bat droppings (guano) near entry points, and staining on walls or ceilings are common signs of a bat infestation. You might also hear high-pitched squeaking or scratching noises, especially at dusk and dawn, as bats enter and exit the structure. Seeing bats flying around your home at dusk is another obvious sign.

Health Risks

Bat guano can harbor the fungus that causes histoplasmosis, a respiratory disease, posing a health risk to those who inhale disturbed spores, especially in humid environments like Myrtle Beach. Bats can also carry rabies, though the incidence is low. Their presence can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals, and their droppings can attract insects, creating secondary pest problems in your home.

Our Treatment Method

MBPC provides humane bat exclusion services, focusing on sealing entry points and installing one-way doors that allow bats to exit but not re-enter. It is illegal to harm or kill bats in South Carolina, and any removal must be done in accordance with SC Department of Natural Resources guidelines. Our licensed technicians ensure safe and effective bat removal for Grand Strand properties.

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Prevention Tips

Seal any cracks or openings in your home's foundation, siding, and roof to prevent bats from entering. Ensure that all attic vents and chimneys are properly screened. Trimming trees and shrubs away from your home can also reduce access points for bats seeking shelter, especially before the warm season in coastal SC.

Habitat

Brazilian free-tailed bats are common throughout South Carolina, including coastal areas like Myrtle Beach. They prefer roosting in warm, dry places such as attics, barns, and wall voids, especially in older buildings. They are drawn to structures that provide protection from the elements and offer easy access to foraging areas, taking advantage of the abundant insect populations in our humid subtropical climate.

Peak activity: Spring-Fall

Identification Photos

Frequently Asked Questions About Brazilian Free-Tailed Bat

While bats can carry diseases like rabies, the risk of transmission is low. However, their droppings (guano) can harbor histoplasmosis, a respiratory disease. It's best to avoid direct contact with bats and their droppings and to call MBPC for professional removal in Myrtle Beach.

It's illegal to harm or kill bats in South Carolina. MBPC offers humane bat exclusion services, sealing entry points and installing one-way doors that allow bats to leave but not return, in accordance with SC Department of Natural Resources regulations.

The best time for bat removal in Myrtle Beach is generally in the spring or fall, outside of the breeding season (late spring to early summer) when young bats are dependent on their mothers. Contact MBPC to determine the appropriate timing for your specific situation.

Some homeowner's insurance policies may cover the cost of bat removal if the infestation has caused damage to your home. Contact your insurance provider and MBPC to assess the situation and determine if coverage applies in your specific case in the Myrtle Beach area.

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