When Can Bats Be Removed in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, bats can legally be removed from homes during specific times of the year to protect their populations and comply with state laws. The optimal time for bat removal is between August and mid-October, while removal is prohibited during June and July due to bat maternity season.


Why Are Bats Removed Between August and Mid-October?

  1. Bat Maternity Season
    • Bats in Connecticut typically give birth from late April to early June. During this period, female bats form maternity colonies to care for their young.
    • Juvenile bats are unable to fly until August, meaning they depend on their mothers for survival. Removing bats during this time risks separating mothers from their young, leading to the death of the baby bats.
  2. Bat Protection Laws
    • Bats are protected under the Connecticut Endangered Species Act, as they play a critical role in controlling insect populations and supporting the ecosystem.
    • Killing bats is not necessary or allowed in most circumstances. Instead, humane exclusion methods are recommended.

Humane Bat Removal and Exclusion

To remove bats safely and legally, it’s essential to follow humane practices. A licensed specialist should perform bat exclusion, ensuring the process complies with state regulations. Here’s how it’s done:

  1. Inspection: A professional will identify roosting areas and entry points in your home.
  2. Exclusion Devices: Install one-way doors or exclusion devices that allow bats to leave but prevent reentry.
  3. Timing: Exclusion work must be done after maternity season to avoid harming baby bats.
  4. Sealing Entry Points: Once all bats have exited, seal all gaps, cracks, and holes to prevent future infestations.

What You Can Do to Keep Bats Away

If you want to prevent bats from roosting in your home, there are proactive steps you can take:

  1. Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for openings larger than 1/2 inch, including around chimneys, vents, and rooflines. Use caulk, mesh, or other weatherproof materials to seal these areas.
  2. Install Bat Houses: Provide alternative roosting spots by placing bat houses away from your home. This helps bats find a safe place to live while keeping them out of your attic or walls.
  3. Use Repellents: Natural repellents like peppermint oil or mothballs can deter bats from nesting in specific areas.
  4. Eliminate Standing Water: Remove or cover water sources near your home to reduce the appeal of your property.
  5. Trim Trees and Bushes: Bats often roost in trees or shrubs close to homes. Keeping foliage trimmed reduces potential roosting spots.
  6. Clean Up Fallen Fruit: Fruit on the ground attracts insects, which in turn attracts bats. Keep your yard clean to minimize this food source.
  7. Create Light Barriers: Use bright lighting in areas where bats tend to gather, as they prefer dark, quiet spaces.
  8. Ultrasonic Devices: Install ultrasonic bat repellents that emit high-frequency sounds to discourage bats from roosting.

Why Professional Help is Recommended

Removing bats requires compliance with Connecticut’s wildlife laws and careful timing to ensure humane treatment. A professional licensed by the CT DEEP Wildlife Division can:

  • Safely exclude bats without harm.
  • Ensure young bats are not trapped during exclusion.
  • Provide long-term solutions to prevent future infestations.

Why Protect Bats?

Bats are vital to Connecticut’s ecosystem, controlling mosquito and insect populations. Their protection under state law ensures they can continue to provide these benefits without unnecessary harm.


By understanding the importance of bat maternity season, following proper removal timing, and using humane exclusion methods, you can protect both your home and Connecticut’s bat population. If you’re facing a bat issue, consider consulting a licensed wildlife specialist for assistance.

Similar Posts