Eastern Small-Footed Bat Facts
Also known as the Eastern small-footed myotis, the eastern small-footed bat is found throughout the Eastern United States and Canadian provinces such as Ontario and Quebec.
The Eastern small-footed bat is so rare that it’s to the point of being considered endangered. Slight populations of the bat species may be present where suitable habitats still exist.
Eastern small-footed bats are affected by white-nose syndrome or WNS. Bats that contract WNS endure a white fungal growth in the nose. The fungus causes bats to awaken prematurely from hibernation. With no food or water resources, the bats are left to starve. Experts theorize that the eastern small-footed bat population is endangered due to WNS wiping them out.
Researchers also believe there are so few records of Eastern small-footed bat populations because the species hibernate in isolated places where they are likely not encountered.
Like the other North American bat species, Eastern small-footed bats mostly eat insects, and use echolocation to navigate and locate their prey in the dark. Eastern small-footed bats like to forage for insects along wooded areas, especially those near streams and other small bodies of water.
Types of Eastern Small-Footed Bats
Eastern Small-Footed Bat Identification
The Eastern small-footed bat is known for its abnormally tiny hind feet which are only seven to eight millimeters long. Another defining characteristic of this bat is its black mask. Eastern small-footed bats have completely black faces, ears, and wings.
Eastern Small-Footed Bat Infestation
If you see an unusual number of little bats flying around your home and roof, it may indicate that Eastern small-footed bats have gained entry.
Brown stains down the siding of your home could be from a mixture of bat droppings and urine known as guano. Guano, along with squeaking noises coming from your walls or attic are indicators that bats are roosting or hibernating in your home.
Although bats are great natural pest controllers, the accumulation of guano can lead to insulation and drywall damage.
Since Eastern small-footed bats are listed as endangered, pest management companies must remove the bats carefully and in accordance to state regulations.
Eastern Small-Footed Bats in the House & Attic
Eastern small-footed bats can easily make their way inside small crevices found in garages, shingles, behind siding, or in chimneys. Sealing any and every potential entry point around your home is essential to preventing a bat infestation.
If bats have already made their way into your home, they can become a danger to your safety and health. The accumulation of bat droppings not only causes structural damage, but contains spores of the fungus Histoplasma, which causes lung infections. Bats are also known for carrying rabies.
For these reasons, bat infestations must be handled by an experienced professional.
If you have come into contact with a bat and fear you may have been scratched or bitten, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Eastern small-footed bat an endangered species?
The Eastern small-footed bat was first discovered 10 years ago in a New York cave. However, white-nose syndrome (WNS) has devastated the population. WNS causes a fungus to form around the nose of the bats. The fungus causes them to leave hibernation prematurely. With no insects to eat during the winter, the infected bats waste their energy flying, and eventually starve to death. WNS is spreading across the United States, but researches are determined to learn more about the fungus and find a cure.
What are the benefits of professional eastern small-footed bat pest control?
Using our education, equipment, and skills, Catseye Pest Control takes the necessary steps to safely and effectively handle your bat problem. With their expertise, our pest management professionals can remove the problem using the best possible solutions. Don’t take matters into your own hands. Contact our pest professionals to schedule a free inspection today.
