Do Bats Come Back?
Bats are creatures of habit. If your home or business has been a roosting spot before, chances are they’ll try to return. Even after a successful removal, bats often revisit old nesting sites, especially if they’ve found easy entry points or familiar scents. But why do they come back, and how can you ensure they stay out for good?
Why Bats Return to the Same Roost
Bats are highly territorial and rely on memory to navigate their surroundings. Once they establish a roosting site, they imprint on it, making them more likely to return—even months or years later. Here’s why:
- Strong Homing Instincts – Bats use echolocation and scent to recognize their old roosting sites.
- Maternity Colony Loyalty – Female bats return to the same spots each year to give birth and raise their young.
- Climate and Shelter – If a space offers stable temperatures, darkness, and protection from predators, bats see it as a safe home.
- Leftover Scent Trails – Bat pheromones and guano leave behind scent markers that attract new colonies.
Even if you think your bat problem is solved, ignoring prevention methods can result in a recurring infestation.
Long-Term Bat Exclusion Methods
To keep bats from coming back, proper exclusion is necessary. This process ensures bats can exit but not re-enter. Here are the most effective strategies:
1. Seal Entry Points
Bats can squeeze through openings as small as ⅜ of an inch. Carefully inspect your home or building for gaps, holes, or cracks, especially around:
- Rooflines and soffits
- Attic vents and chimneys
- Loose siding and fascia boards
- Gaps around pipes and utility lines
Use caulk, mesh, or weatherproof sealants to close these entry points permanently.
2. Install One-Way Exclusion Devices
One-way doors allow bats to leave but prevent them from flying back in. These should be placed over active entry points and left in place for at least a week to ensure all bats have exited before sealing off the area.
3. Eliminate Attractants
Reduce the chances of bats returning by addressing the elements that made your home appealing in the first place:
- Lighting Adjustments – Bats prefer dark, secluded areas. Keep exterior lights on near known roosting spots to deter them.
- Odor Removal – Guano and urine odors can attract bats even after they’ve been removed. Deep-clean affected areas with enzyme-based cleaners.
- Structural Repairs – Broken screens, loose flashing, or damaged roofing should be repaired to prevent future access.
4. Encourage Alternative Roosting
If bats are beneficial to your area, consider installing a bat house nearby. This gives them an alternative shelter while keeping them out of your home. Place bat houses at least 12-15 feet high on a pole or building, facing south or southeast for optimal sun exposure.
5. Schedule a Professional Inspection
Bats are protected under California law, meaning removal methods must be humane and properly timed. A bat control expert can identify weak points in your structure, implement safe exclusion, and ensure your home is permanently sealed.
Final Thoughts
Bats are persistent, but with the right prevention measures, you can keep them from reclaiming their old roost. Sealing entry points, installing exclusion devices, and maintaining regular inspections are the best ways to ensure they don’t return. If you suspect bats are making a comeback, acting quickly can prevent another full-scale infestation.