Rats and mice may be small, but they can cause big problems. These furry pests are known to chew through wires, gnaw on wood and destroy insulation - not to mention contaminate food sources and spread disease. In short, rodents can wreak havoc in your home or business. How much damage do rats and mice really cause? And what can you do to prevent these critters from wreaking havoc on your own property? Read on to learn more about the damage caused by rats and mice - and how to prevent these pests from causing costly damage to your home or business. How Much Damage Do Rats Cause? Rodents are responsible for an estimated 25% of all house fires in the United States. Not just that, but they cause billions of damage to homes, buildings, and businesses. Incredible, right? But it doesn't stop there - they can also transmit diseases to humans, including Hantavirus, Salmonella, and Bubonic plague. What Kinds of Damage Do They Cause? Rodents are everywhere and they can enter your home or business in a number of ways. Once they're in, they'll start to cause all sorts of problems. These rodents are notorious for causing fires and floods, they gnaw on valuables, cause damage to structures, and pose health risks. Let's discuss each in a little more detail: Fires and floods  Rodents chewing wires and pipes are common knowledge. Rodents love to chew on things, and wires and pipes are no exception. This chewing can cause shorts in electrical wiring, which can lead to fires. Not just that, but they can also gnaw through water pipes, causing flooding. These furry pests have been known to cause billions of dollars in damage to homes, buildings, and businesses each year.  Wires and water pipes look hardly edible, but why do rodents nibble on them anyway? The answer is, that they're trying to control their ever-growing incisors. When they gnaw on something hard, it helps to keep their teeth at a manageable length. Unfortunately for us, wires and pipes are an easy target. Rats Gnawing On Valuables When they're not busy chewing on wires or pipes, they might munch on your clothes, car wires, books, or furniture. The worst-case scenario is they destroy your most valuable items: your family heirlooms, photographs, artwork, and even important documents. We usually keep these items in an area where people and kids don't frequent because they might get accidentally rearranged or damaged. But, rodents can squeeze into the smallest of spaces and once they're in, they'll start to destroy your property. Often, these valuables are irreplaceable, especially family photographs. Once they're damaged, there's no way to fix them.  Rats Can Make Your Home Structurally Unsound Not only will rodents damage your belongings, but they can also damage the structure of your home. Their constant gnawing can weaken beams, supports, and load-bearing walls. This is especially dangerous if you have a multi-story home because the weight of the upper floors could come crashing down on the lower floors. In extreme cases, the damage caused by rodents can make your home structurally unsound and unsafe to live in. You might not notice the damage immediately, but over time, the cumulative damage they've done will make your home unstable or unsafe. Rodents eat car wires too! Rodents chewing car wires is not news especially when you're parking indoors. They will also build their nests in your car's engine, which can cause serious damage. You might not have guessed it, but your car is an all-you-can-eat buffet for rats and mice. They love to nibble on the insulation around the wires in your car's engine. This can cause electrical problems and even fires. Making sure there's nothing in your vehicle that could attract rodents is one way to prevent them from damaging your car. Food wrappers, crumbs, and even pet food can all attract rodents. If you park your car in a garage or storage unit, be sure to keep it clean and free of clutter. When this happens, you’re probably wondering whether your insurance covers rodent damage. The best answer is to check your car insurance policy and insurance provider. Not all auto insurance policies cover damage from chewed car wires. Health Risks Rats and mice are known to spread more than 35 diseases worldwide. The diseases may be transmitted and spread through direct contact with rodent feces, urine, saliva, or bites.  The most common diseases transmitted by rodents are hantavirus, leptospirosis, lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCMV), and Salmonella. These diseases can be life-threatening. If you think you've been exposed to any of these diseases, seek medical help immediately. Rodents Can Attract Other Wildlife Including Snakes! Yikes! Rodents are one of snakes' favorite foods and they can smell a rat or mouse from a long way away. If you have rodents in your home, there's a good chance that snakes will be attracted to your property. While most snakes are not dangerous, there are some species that can pose a serious threat to humans. These include the eastern diamondback rattlesnake, the western diamondback rattlesnake, and the cottonmouth. If you live in an area where these snakes are common, it's important to be extra cautious. This situation should give you more reason to prevent rodents from infesting your house. These predators are attracted to the same places where rodents are usually found- in dark, secluded areas. The spaces can be in your attic, crawl space, or under your house. Crop Damage Rodents are vermin, pests, or nuisance animals that spread diseases and destroy crops. If you're a farmer, you know the devastation rodents can bring to your crops. They feast on your produce and ruin your hard work. They can destroy an entire crop in a single night! It means lost revenue for you and puts food security at risk. Not only do they eat the crops, but they also contaminate them with their waste. It can make the food unsafe for human consumption. Signs of Rodent Infestation The first sign of a rodent infestation is sightings themselves. If you see a rat or mouse in your home, there's likely more from where they come. They usually travel in groups and reproduce quickly, so an infestation can happen in no time if not removed. Another sign of an infestation is droppings. Rodent droppings are small, dark, and pellet-shaped. Typically found near where the rodents are nesting or feeding. If you hear unexplained noises in your walls or ceiling then you probably have rodents. They like to gnaw on things, so you might hear them chewing on wood or insulation. If you notice any of these signs, take action immediately. An infestation can quickly get out of control, so it's best to nip it in the bud as soon as possible. More About Rodents Rodents are not just rats and mice. These gnawing mammals include gophers, voles, chipmunks, squirrels, etc. You often see squirrels in trees, gophers on sandy soil, voles on dense vegetation, and some crawling on power lines and roofs.  Most of them are known for burrowing under shrubs and bushes. They dug tunnels as means of escape and hideouts from predators. Additionally, rats are good swimmers! Many gardeners hate rodents, as they damage vegetables, flowers, and newly planted seeds and dig plants up to their roots. These sneaky rodents give a fair share of eating bulbs, nuts, fruit, and even snails. Prevention The best way to deal with rodents is to prevent them from getting into your home in the first place. Here are quick tips: Seal up any cracks or holes in your foundation and walls. Rodents can squeeze through tiny spaces, so ensure there are no gaps they can get through. Secure food in airtight containers. Rodents are attracted to food, so they're more likely to enter your home if there are accessible food sources. Keep your trash can lids closed. Trash cans are another source of food for rodents. Make sure to clean your cars regularly to prevent vehicle damage. Your engine compartment can be a good nesting site for rodents. Keep pet food sealed tightly. Their smell can attract rodents. Following these tips will make you less likely to have a rodent problem. But it's wiser to call a Rodent removal service if you are experiencing an infestation. Need Help With a Rat Infestation On Your Property? Dealing with a rat infestation can be pretty frustrating, especially when you have other things to do. It's not always safe too, you’ll get exposed to rat droppings which are often a source of diseases.  So if you suspect that you have rats and mice at your house, it's best to call us at AAAC Wildlife Removal immediately. We conduct inspections and effective removal services as well as preventive measures to keep the rodents from coming back. Conclusion Rats and mice are a serious problem. They may be small, but they're terrible guests at your house. They cause damage to your property, pose a health risk to you and your family, and can even attract other wildlife animals. If you have a rodent problem, immediately take action to prevent further damage. Just remember to call AAAC Wildlife Removal if you want to prevent and stop rodents from infesting your home. Originally published at AAAC Wildlife Removal: https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/rats/damage-caused-by-rats-and-mice/

• Brian Moss (President)
• AAAC Wildlife Removal

11/28/2022

Total words : 1562

Birds fly high and free in the sky, but they are not invincible. These creatures of prey have their own predators to worry about. Depending on the size and type of bird, different animals will go after them for a meal. From mammals and reptiles to other birds, many different creatures see these animals as a tasty treat. Animals That Eat birds Many animals consider birds a part of their diet. The animals that hunt and eat them can range from domesticated animals to amphibians, reptiles, mammals, and other usual predatory creatures. Let's dive into them in detail. Cats Cats are carnivores, so they can see birds as their natural prey. Studies have shown that domestic and feral cats are the leading predators of birds in the United States. Cats, including house cats, big cats, and wild cats, will go after anything that moves. A bird's erratic flying patterns make them look very tempting to a cat's hunting instincts. Cats come in contact with birds in different ways. A cat may see a bird through a window and attack it or hear birds in the yard and go after them. Stray cats are also a problem for birds because they often roam near bird feeders and attack the birds that come to eat. These domestic cats are recorded to kill 1.3 to 4 billion wild birds yearly. Dogs Dogs are also one of the animals that frequently hunt and eat birds. Many dogs were often specifically bred and trained to help humans in bird hunting. Dog breeds like retrievers, spaniels, setters, and hounds are often trained to flush out birds so that hunters could shoot them. While most domesticated dogs are not as skilled in hunting birds as their ancestors, they still have the instinct to go after them.  Squirrels Squirrels may be cute little mammals, but they are pretty sneaky. They are mammals closely related to rats, mice, and other rodents. They are found in a variety of habitats all over the world and many of them are known to eat birds. Squirrels will often eat eggs or baby birds that are not yet able to fly. They will also go after adult birds if they are small enough to be considered prey. In some cases, squirrels have even been known to raid bird nests and eat the eggs or young birds inside. You'll see squirrels eat almost anything they can get their hands on, including baby birds, eggs, and nestlings. This can be a real problem for bird populations because it can cause them to decline rapidly. One of the squirrel's common habitats is the branches of trees, which also happens to be where many birds build their nests. This gives the squirrels easy access to their potential meals. Raccoons Raccoons are another common predator that consumes birds. They are nocturnal mammals that have a distinctive black mask around their eyes and a ringed tail. They’re mostly found in forests, marshes, and urban areas.  The mask can be quite advantageous for raccoons when they hunt for food at night, they may catch sleeping birds off guard. Raccoons will also den in trees, this gives them yet another way to access birds’ nests. Raccoons are especially fond of raiding nests and baby birds, but they will also eat adult birds if they are able to catch them. Foxes Foxes are fascinating bird hunters. They are a group of canid mammals, that include the red fox, gray fox, and arctic fox. Foxes are known to be proficient hunters and eat just about anything they can catch, including birds. Similar to raccoons, foxes are nocturnal predators and typically hunt for food at night. They will use their sharp claws and teeth to kill their prey. They will often stalk birds, inching closer and closer until they are close enough to pounce. Foxes will eat just about any type of bird, but they seem to prefer preying on small birds such as sparrows, finches, and larks. Snakes Snakes are expert bird feeders. They are a group of reptiles that includes the cobra, python, and rattlesnake. With their elongated body, sharp teeth, striking speed, and venom, birds will have no escape when these slimy predators select them as prey. Snakes, interestingly, do not chew their hunt. So, once the bird is in its mouth, it will swallow it whole. Snakes also often invade bird nests to seek bird eggs or baby birds. Other than snakes, reptiles such as lizards and crocodiles are also good at catching birds. Lizards will eat smaller birds, while crocodiles can devour almost any bird that comes their way. Frogs It may sound unusual to hear that frogs are predators of birds, but it is true. Some species of frogs will actually prey on birds. Aquatic birds, especially other smaller birds who frequent swamps, rivers, and other water bodies, are preyed upon by these amphibians.  Frogs like the American Bullfrog, Goliath Frog, and Khorat big-mouthed frog have been known to eat birds. These frogs will sit and wait for their prey, much like a snake does. When a bird comes close enough, the frog will use its tongue to snatch the bird out of the air. Baboons Baboons are a group of Old World monkeys, including the hamadryas baboon, olive baboon, and yellow baboon. They are one of the largest known monkeys in the world and are typically found in Africa and Arabia. Baboons are omnivores and opportunistic eaters, so they will pretty much do whatever they can get their hands on. They’ll feed on rodents, small mammals, and birds. Coyotes Coyotes are also listed as birds' most dangerous predators. They are a species of canids found in Central and North America. These creatures usually inhabit forests, plains, and mountains. Coyotes are known to stalk their prey before attacking. Once they see a good opportunity, they will pounce on them. They encounter birds mostly in mountains or forests, with flightless birds (like molted waterfowl) being the most vulnerable. Quail, wild turkey, eastern meadowlark, and roadrunners are the usual birds eaten by coyotes. Weasels Weasels are a group of mustelid mammals that includes the ferret, mink, and stoat. Weasels have long, slender bodies that enable them to enter the burrows of their prey. Weasels are known to be ferocious hunters and will eat anything they see fit in their diet, including birds. They'd usually climb trees or enter birdhouses to get their prey. Chickens and game birds are their usual victims. Badgers Badgers are short-legged omnivorous mammals that are in the same family as polecats, wolverines, otters, and weasels. Their habitats are woods, hedges, and grasslands. Badgers are nocturnal animals and will only come out at night to look for food. They prey on earthworms, frogs, and other small animals like snakes, rodents, and birds. Avivore (a bird that eats birds) Birds hunt, kill, and eat their feathered friends too. These bird species are called Avivores or birds of prey, or raptors. The most common avivore is the shrike. Shrikes are small to medium-sized passerine birds with strong hooked beaks that they use to kill their prey.  Another common avivore is the accipiter. Accipiters are a group of medium to large hawks. They have long tails and short, broad wings, and their diet consists primarily of birds, which they hunt by stealthily approaching their prey from behind before attacking. Another bird species that hunts birds are the peregrine falcons. These creatures usually swoop or dive on flying birds in mid-air. Large birds of prey, such as eagles, hawks, and owls can kill a good number of wild birds, pigeons, and doves. Scavengers also exist and vultures count as an example. They feed on decaying flesh and matter of animals. When they spot injured birds or birds not entirely consumed by other animals, they approach them and finish the whole meal. Humans Humans can be the most dangerous predators of birds. We kill them for their meat, feathers, and eggs. We also destroy their habitats with our agricultural and urban development activities. Birds that have been victims of human hunting include the Passenger Pigeon, Carolina Parakeet, Great Auk, and Heath Hen. Other Bird Predators Besides the main predators listed above, there are other animals that feed on birds. Some of them can be quite surprising and interesting. Fish Fish can be predators too. Known predatory fishes that eat birds include the Northern pike, largemouth bass, and African tigerfish. They’d aggressively jump out of the water to attack birds that are swimming near the surface. Fish that eat birds often live in shallow waters where their prey usually come to forage. Baby ducks are often the victims of these fish as they are very easy prey. Praying mantises Insects, yes! You're not reading this wrong. Praying mantises are one of the most dangerous predators to birds. Praying mantises are ambush predators and will usually lie in wait for their prey плед. When an unsuspecting bird comes by, the praying mantis will strike and kill it. Hummingbirds are the most common birds that fall prey to mantises. They grab these small birds and start eating them while they're still alive. Sea anemones Sea anemones are a group of marine predatory animals. They attach themselves to rocks or other hard surfaces using their pedal disc. They don't really hunt but typically place themselves in strategic positions where injured birds покривало на диван or baby chicks can fall into their "mouths." Once they're in the sea anemone's mouth, they will be stung and paralyzed. The anemone will then start to digest them. Need Help With Bird Pests On Your Property? Birds may be magnificent creatures but when they start nesting in your vents or dropping ungodly amounts of poop on your freshly cleaned car, they become pests. If you need help getting rid of bird pests, contact AAAC Wildlife Removal today. We specialize in the humane removal of wildlife pests so you can rest assured that the animals will not be harmed in any way плитоноска купить. We also clean up any messes they may have left behind and we disinfect areas to prevent the spread of diseases. We'll offer you the best service available when it comes to bird infestations тактичні джинси. Our experienced and skilled team will help remove and prevent these flying creatures from wreaking havoc in your life. We also help with other infestations like raccoons, skunks, bats, rodents, and other uninvited guests, call us today! Final Word So, there you have it! The bird's flight and agile movement do not exempt it from being preyed on by other animals. In fact, because of their small size, birds become an easy target for predators куртка зимняя тактическая. The next time you see a bird soaring through the sky, remember that it is also constantly looking out for predators who might want to make it their next meal.  Originally published at https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/birds/predators-of-birds/

• Brian Moss (President)
• AAAC Wildlife Removal

11/28/2022

Total words : 1820

Bats are classic scary movie material. It's easy to think of them as "predators", but have you ever considered that they might be the prey? Despite this popular reputation, bats are actually incredibly important to our ecosystems. More than just creatures of the night, these animals play vital roles in controlling insect populations and pollinating flowers and fruits. In short, they're pretty darn amazing. Unfortunately, all this goodwill doesn't stop bats from having predators of their own. So who or what exactly is out there snacking on these nocturnal creatures? Let's take a look. What Animals Eat Bats? There are many, many animals that enjoy a good bat meal. In fact, you might be surprised to learn that some of the animals on this list are your common, everyday critters. Bats' predators range from domestic animals to a number of wildlife species. Here's a look at some of the animals that eat bats: Cats Aha... these adorable yet conniving little pets. It's no secret that cats love to hunt, and bats are definitely on their menu.  Domestic cats, as well as larger felines like bobcats and cougars, will readily snatch up a bat if they get the chance. Bats are nocturnal mammals, so they like hiding in places where it's dark during the day. It can be your attics, porch roofs, chimneys, cable vents, and other small nooks and crannies. Unfortunately for them, this often puts them in close proximity to our furry friends napping spots. And when a bat wanders into these areas, well... let's just say the poor thing doesn't stand a chance. Owls Owls are also nocturnal animals-  creatures that are awake at night and sleeping during the day. They hunt alone or in pairs using their sharp claws and beaks to kill their prey. They have large eyes, which help them see in the dark. And their ears are asymmetrical, which means that they can pinpoint the location of their prey by sound. Owls are common bat predators. There are many owl species, and each specializes in hunting different prey. The most well-known bat predators among them are the great horned owl (Bubo virginianus), tawny owls (Strix aluco), and barn owls (Tyto alba).  But, what makes bats a staple in their diets? Well, for one thing, bats are relatively easy to catch. They're not particularly fast or agile, so an owl can easily swoop down and snatch one out of the air. Owls also have a very sharp sense of hearing. They can hear sounds that are too faint for humans to hear. And because bats tend to make a lot of noise when they fly, it's easy for owls to spot and hunt them down. Another reason is that bats usually roost in groups. Bats flock in caves, trees, rock crevices, and other dark places. So, when an owl preys on a bat, it's often able to catch more than one. Peregrine Falcons Peregrine falcons are large birds of prey, that have long, sharp talons and a hooked beak. They have long and thin wings that help them fly fast and dive quickly.  Peregrine falcons are also known for being on of the fastest animals in the world. They can fly close 200 miles per hour! They use their speed to dive down on their prey and catch it mid-air. So, bats don't really stand a chance against these predators. Peregrine falcons usually eat small birds, but they will also eat bats. In fact, bats make up a large part of their diet in some areas. Hawks Hawks are also birds of prey. They are smaller than falcons, but they are still very fast and agile flyers. They have sharp eyesight and can see their prey from far away. There are many different species of hawks, and each specializes in hunting different types of prey.  However, some of the more common bat-eating hawks are Cooper's hawk (Accipiter cooperii) and the sharp-shinned hawk (Accipiter striatus).  There are also bat hawks (Macheiramphus alcinus) , which are a type of hawk that specializes in hunting bats. These hawks are found in Central and South America. They have long, curved talons that help them grip their prey as well as large eyes that help them see in the dark.  These hawks consume almost nothing else but bats. Hawks hunt by flying high above their prey and then diving down on it. They use their sharp claws and beak to kill their prey. In general, all hawks consume bats. However, most hawk species' primary food sources remain reptiles (e.g., lizards), insects, rodents, and other small mammals. Snakes It's no secret that snakes eat bats too. You know they're already infamous for eating literally anything, no matter how big it may seem.  So, it's only natural that they would want to snack on some bats every now and then. Snakes would often hang on trees or cave roofs and strike when a bat flew close by.  Although snakes do not have ears to hear, they are very sensitive to sound-induced vibrations. They use this sense to strike at prey, and it is especially useful for detecting the fluttering of wings from a distance. This is how they're able to find and eat bats even though the creatures are nocturnal. Crocodile Can you imagine that these water-loving animals eat bats? Yes, you're not reading this wrong! The crocodile is the second reptile on our list. They are semi-aquatic organisms commonly found in the tropical regions of Australia, Asia, Africa, and America. Crocodiles are enormous, terrifying creatures. Their average size ranges from 17 to 23 feet long, and they can weigh over 2000 pounds. Knowing this, aren't you wondering how these heavy mammals get to eat bats? Or how these bats get into a crocodile's mouth in the first place? Well, turns out that bats, like the flying fox bats of Australia, often dip or drink water from lakes, rivers, and ponds where crocodiles also reside. The crocodiles lie in wait and pounce on the unsuspecting bats. River banks serve as the primary water source for bats, so it's no surprise that they would end up as crocodiles' prey. Bats also hunt insects in bodies of water, so this gives crocodiles another chance to snatch them. Arachnids and Centipedes Arachnids are a class of jointed-legged invertebrate animals. They are characterized by having two body segments: the cephalothorax (the fused head and chest) and the abdomen. Arachnids include spiders, daddy longlegs, scorpions, mites, and ticks. These creatures hunt by spinning webs or building traps to capture their prey. Spiders Can you imagine an organism as small as spiders eating creatures as big as bats?  Yes, it happens. We know spiders for their web-spinning abilities which is how bats and other organisms fall prey to these 8-legged arachnids. The sticky and thick web made of spider silk makes it possible for the spider to immobilize their prey. Spiders such as tarantulas, orb-weavers, and huntsman spiders are large enough and know to prey upon bats. They will spin a web and wait for their prey to get stuck into it. Once their prey becomes stuck in the web, the spider will come and wrap it up in webbing. The spider will then inject venom to kill it.  Centipedes Centipedes are predators that hunt on the ground and crawl in caves where bats live. Centipedes primarily exist in caves and forests. This is where they can eat roosting, sleeping, or hibernating bats. Centipedes are long and thin, so they can easily sneak into small spaces to attack their prey. They have a poisonous bite that can kill bats instantly. Humans Yes, you read that right. Humans are also bats’ predators. Although this is not a common occurrence, it does happen. Bats are interestingly considered a delicacy in some cultures. They will cook them and eat them as food. In other cases, people may kill bats for their fur or use their meat as traditional medicine. Additionally, bats can get into houses and even build bat colonies there. When this happens, some people may kill them for being a nuisance or simply because they fear them. However, despite all these reasons, humans are not the main predators of bats. The vast majority of bats get killed by other animals. Amazing Bat Knowledge! Out of the many bats in South America, the Vampyrum spectrum, or the spectral bats, is one of the most interesting ones. Why? Because they eat other bats themselves.Bats' most significant threat is not predatory wild animals; it's a disease! White-nose syndrome, a condition from a fungus called Pseudogymnoascus destructans, this infects the muzzle, ears, and wings of bats. Millions have been reported as killed in 2018.Interestingly, the little brown bat species are known to exhibit genes that help them survive the white-nose syndrome.Flying foxes (Pteropus giganteus), a species of fruit bats, are estimated to live the longest. Final Word As you can see, different natural predators feed on bats. These animals range from raptors to reptiles to arachnids and insects. Each of these animals has a different method of hunting and killing bats. Some will fly through the air and snatch them out of the sky. Others wait patiently for them in their roosts and then pounce on them. And still, others will spin webs to trap them. No matter how they do it, these animals all play a role in keeping the bat population under control. So, while it may be sad to see a bat killed by one of these animals, it helps keep the ecosystem in balance. Originally published at https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/bats/what-are-bats-predators/

• Brian Moss (President)
• AAAC Wildlife Removal

11/28/2022

Total words : 1611

Bats, the flying mammals of the Chiroptera family, are generally harmless and can even be beneficial to have around, especially for controlling harmful insects. They eat lots of mosquitoes, bugs, and other dangerous insect pests. Despite this obvious benefit, some people are still worried about the potential damage that bats can cause to their homes when they decide to roost on your property. But could bats actually do any damage to your house? So, Can Bats Do Structural Damage to Homes? Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Bats can cause damage to your home if they roost there. In fact, there are a number of ways that bats could potentially damage your home. One way is if they roost in large numbers in a small space, like an attic. This can cause bat guano (poop or dropping) to build up, which is not only smelly but can also attract other pests like rats and cockroaches. The guano can cause rot in your insulation and wood as well as create stains on ceilings.  Here are other ways that bats could damage your home:  Holes and Cracks Bats could create holes or cracks in your walls or ceiling as they come and go from their roost. These holes can let in not only bat guano but also rainwater, which can cause water damage to your home. Bats Can Bring in Other Pests Because bat guano can attract other pests like rats and cockroaches, bats could potentially bring these other pests into your home as well. This can create a whole new set of problems that you’ll need to deal with. Bat Feces is Corrosive Unlike mice, rats, and other rodents that cause damage by chewing on wires and other objects, bats cause damage with their guano, which is quite corrosive and can cause rot.  This is because bat droppings are high in ammonia, a compound that can break down organic material. Over time, this can erode wood and insulation, causing stains on ceilings and other surfaces. Guano Build-Up Could Cause Ceiling to Collapse In some cases, the build-up of guano can be quite substantial, and if it’s not cleaned up, it could actually cause your ceiling to collapse, especially if the spot has been compromised by rot or water damage. Bat Waste Can Cause Stains in the Wall and Ceilings Bat urine and droppings can also cause stains on your ceilings and walls. These stains seep into porous surfaces like wood and drywall, causing discoloration. These stains can be quite difficult to remove and may require professional cleaning. Bats Waste Can Cause Bad Odor in Your House You may think bats in your house are OK because they are quiet. But,  the bat waste they leave behind can cause a very bad odor in your house. This odor can quickly fill up small spaces, like attics, and can easily seep into the living areas of your house making your whole house stink. Bat Diseases and Parasites Like many other wild animals, bats also lead to health risks. This can range from being mildly annoying, such as itchiness from bat bites, to deadly, like rabies. Bats can also carry parasites that can infest your homes, such as mites and fleas. So, while bats have some benefits, they can certainly cause some problems as well. The following are the different diseases and parasites bats can transmit to humans: Rabies - bats are one of the leading carriers of this deadly virus in the US. This virus is transmitted through bat bites or scratches. If left untreated, rabies is almost always fatal. Histoplasmosis - this is a lung infection caused by inhaling spores of a fungus that come from bat droppings and other birds. When this happens, you may experience fever, chest pain, and coughing up blood when you have this disease. Salmonellosis - salmonellosis is food poisoning caused by eating food contaminated with bat guano. Symptoms will include diarrhea, vomiting, and fever. This disease is usually not fatal but can be severe in young children, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems. Bat Mites (bat bugs)- are tiny parasitic mites that live on bats. But, if you come in contact with these mites, they can bite and cause skin irritation. While the transmission of these diseases and parasites is not very common,  it is still important to be aware of the risks. If you are bitten or scratched by a bat, it's important to seek medical attention immediately. It's always better to be safe than sorry. Why Do Bats Enter My House? There are a few reasons why these flying creatures would want to enter your home. One reason is that they are looking for a place to roost or rest during the day. Bats are nocturnal animals and your attics, crawl spaces, and even wall voids make for the perfect bat roost.  Another reason could be that they are looking for a place to raise their young. Female bats usually give birth to one or two baby bats, called "pups." They will look for a warm, dark place to raise their pups until they are old enough to fly and fend for themselves. Getting Rid of Bats Now that we've gone over why bats are in your house and the damage they can cause, it's time to get rid of them. The best way to do this is to call a professional bat removal company like AAAC Wildlife Removal. We will provide the best solution for your bat problem.  If you don't want to call a professional, there are a few things you can do to try to get rid of the bats yourself. We've provided a few steps below: Step 1: Find the entry points. We already know that bats are flying creatures, so be sure to search for obvious areas first. Your chimneys, cable vents, or roof vents.  If your house doesn’t have any of these, look for small cracks or holes in your walls, ceilings, and around your windows. Bats can squeeze through very tiny spaces, so be sure to check both the inside and outside of your home. Also check your porch roofs, drip edges, wood sidings, soffits, loose roof shingles, and gaps on walls. Many bats find these common areas suitable enough to hide from the daylight. Remember that entry points are usually very tiny cracks or gaps, so you'll need to inspect your home thoroughly inside and out. Once you find the entry points, you can start to seal them up. Step 2: Allow the bats to get out but not back in Once you've found all the entry points that bats are using to get into your home, you can seal them up except for one. In this access point, you will need to place a device that allows bats to fly out of your home but not back in. There are a few ways you can do this:  1. You can use bat cones, which are devices that you place over the hole that lets bats out but not back in. 2. You can use bat valves which are pretty similar to bat cones.  These are tube-like one-way devices that fit over the hole the bat uses to get in. The bat can then go out, but not back in. 3. You can use a screen or netting to cover the holes. If you use a screen, you should place it like a rectangular tube with two openings. One opening is attached to the crack and the other leads outside. The outer end of the screen should not be at the level of the hole. These devices all serve the same purpose, when bats try to go out at night,  they will hit the bat valve/ bat cone/ screen and be redirected outside, but when they attempt to go back, they won't be able to because of the one-way device. Step 3: Repair the holes and entry points Once the bats have been removed from your home, it's time to really make sure they can't come back. To do this, you'll need to repair anything that might be acting as an entry point. This includes cracks in your walls, holes in your ceilings, and gaps around your windows. This is a crucial step, as bats can squeeze through incredibly small spaces. Be sure to double-check both the inside and outside of your home for any cracks or holes, no matter how small. You can use several sealants available at your local hardware stores. Choices may include a wire mesh that is half an inch wide or less, new boards, plaster, or foam sealants. Prevent Bats from Entering Your Property The best way to keep a colony of bats from roosting in your home is to prevent them from getting inside in the first place. Here are some tips to help you do that: Check for Holes around your house In order to find the point of entry for these pests, you will want to check for holes around your house. This can be a difficult task as some of these animals are incredibly small and they can fit even the very tight spaces. For this reason, it is important to do a thorough inspection of your home. You should check some familiar places around your windows, along the roof line, in the attic, crawlspace, and chimney. Once you have found the point of entry, you can then take the necessary steps to block it so the bats cannot return. Seal Small Passages As we mentioned, some bat species can enter your home, even through extremely slim or tiny entry points. In fact, they can go through one that is as small as 3/8 of an inch. There are some ways that you can seal off these tiny spaces, which include caulk, steel wool, and screening material. But, if you're unsure how to seal the passage correctly, you can always contact a wildlife control company for assistance. Install Bat Houses You can prevent bats from roosting in your home by installing bat houses in your yard. By doing this, you will provide these animals with an alternative roosting spot that is far away from your house. You should note that bat house installation should occur after the current colony of bats has been removed from your home, as they will not move into the bat house if bats are already roosting in your house. Bat Facts! Did you know that... Bats “see” with sound! Although they still have eyes, these creatures use bat sonar (Sound Navigation And Ranging) to navigate in the dark. This is a sophisticated process we call "echolocation." Not all bats hibernate and migrate, but some do both. Species like the brown bat hibernate for as long as six months; Pteropus or flying fox do not hibernate since they generally exist in countries where food is consistent. Some people go hunting for bats for reasons such as food or perceived medical value.  Bats pollinate! They are essential pollinators in deserts or tropical climates. Bats from Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Pacific Islands often visit flowers for their pollen, nectar, or seed, which is how they influence pollination. Some would also frequent a tree for their fruit. Bats hide primarily in a cave, so predators looking for prey are not their most significant threat! Instead, millions of them die from a disease called white-nose syndrome. In bats, the longest recorded wings reach 5 feet! And the smallest wingspan measured only over 5 inches. Professional Bat Removal There's no better solution to your bat problem than getting professionals like us at AAAC Wildlife Removal.  We will quickly and efficiently remove the bats from your home while also taking the necessary steps to prevent them from returning.  Whether it's a bat problem, a raccoon infestation, or other forms of destructive and uninvited creatures, you can count on us to get the job done right. Get in touch with us today to schedule a consultation! Conclusion In short, bats can and will damage your house if they take up roosting there. Their urine and guano often cause property damage and pose danger to human health. If you think you may have bats in your home, get rid of them before they do any more damage, call AAAC Wildlife Removal today! Originally published at AAAC Wildlife Removal: https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/bats/can-bats-damage-your-house/

• Brian Moss (President)
• AAAC Wildlife Removal

11/28/2022

Total words : 2074

While raccoons are not considered to be a threatened or endangered species, they do have predators that prey on them. Let's take a look at the wide variety of critters that think of raccoons as a tasty snack! Predators That Eat Raccoons Being a small animal in the wild is difficult since many natural predators nearby are more robust, faster, and fiercer. Although this is part of the natural order of things, some creatures, like adult raccoons or juvenile males, nevertheless face challenges in surviving due to their small size. Given their short average life span, they serve as a food source for common predators. Here are some of the major predators or animal predators that prey on raccoons: Large Cats One of the most common wild predators of other raccoons is large cats. In North America, this includes mountain lions, pumas, and bobcats. These powerful predators hunt alone and use their stealth and speed to take down their prey. Mountain lions  Mountain lions can be found from sea level to heights of 10,000 feet in both coastal forests and deserts. Their natural habitat is in rock crevices, steep valleys, or mountains in areas where there are deer. In Golden, Colorado, reports of raccoon carcasses in yards have surfaced. According to authorities, mountain lions are to blame for killing raccoons. Bobcats  Bobcats are common in North America. They are habitat generalists and can mostly live in woodlands, coastal swamps, deserts, and scrubland. Bobcats have sharp teeth that they use when they encounter raccoons in the wild. They’ll also eat a smaller raccoon if the opportunity arises. Large Birds Of Prey  The vast majority of raccoons are hefty, so obviously, predators of raccoons are large birds that can effectively grasp and consume them. Like eagles, birds of prey or raptors have a massive wingspan extending up to 8 feet. They have huge, powerful talons to kill their game before eating and powerful beaks that can crush their prey. Their vision is also very keen, allowing them to spot potential meals from far away. Some of the raptors that hunt and eat raccoons include: Great Horned Owls  They can be found in much of the Americas. A great horned owl has a wingspan of up to 5 feet and can weigh up to 4 pounds. Their diet consists mainly of small mammals, including rabbits, skunks, and raccoons. Golden Eagle  The golden eagle is a ubiquitous bird in North America, Europe, and Asia. They have a wingspan of about 7.5 feet and can weigh up to 15 pounds. Their diet consists of rabbits, squirrels, marmots, ground-nesting birds, mice, lizards, and snakes. Bald Eagle  A North American species of an eagle with a wingspan of up to 8.2 feet and weight of up to 15 pounds are slightly smaller than golden eagles. Their diet consists mainly of fish, but they will also eat small mammals, such as rabbits, squirrels, and raccoons. Alligators  Do you ever wonder how raccoons and alligators come into contact with one another? Raccoons and alligators coexist from North Carolina to Texas. Alligators can only be found close to water sources, which also happen to be raccoons' preferred same habitats. So eating raccoons and other animals nearby will be easy. These mammals are drawn to water for various reasons, including the ability to swim and their famous habit of "washing their food". Due to their love of water and frequent habitation of areas near lakes and streams, raccoons are also drawn to swimming pools. Raccoons wash their front paws and food before ingestion. Coyotes  Coyote packs are found across North America in habitats ranging from deserts to forests to urban areas. They are adaptable animals and eat almost anything, including rodents, rabbits, deer, snakes, lizards, and fruits and vegetables. The two wild animals will encounter each other most commonly near humans in rural and suburban areas. Raccoons and coyotes, unlike other animals, have successfully adapted to the expansion of humankind encroaching on their habitats. Wolves  Wolves live in various habitats, including forests, tundra, and grasslands. Wolves primarily eat medium to large-sized ungulates, such as deer, but also eat small mammals, reptiles, and fish. When wolves hunt in packs, they often seek larger prey. So if they come across a raccoon, they will probably pass it by because it won't be enough for the pack to eat. However, if a wolf hunts alone, it will not hesitate to consume a raccoon, particularly juvenile raccoons. Snakes  Pythons and boas are non-venomous snakes that kill their prey by constriction. These snakes are climbing trees and fruit trees found in Africa, Asia, and Australia. Pythons can grow about 30 feet long and weigh up to 200 pounds, while boas can produce about 20 feet long and weigh up to 60 pounds. Pythons and Anacondas eat mammals, such as raccoon meat, rodents, deer, and pigs. However, they have been known to consume raccoons on occasion. On the other hand, raccoons and some small snakes don't typically interact in some areas unless one tries to startle the other. Fisher Cats  Fisher Cats are found in North America, specifically in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. They are mainly members of the weasel family and have long slim bodies and hind feet that allow them to pursue their prey in small spaces. Fisher cats weigh up to 20 pounds and eat various animals, including squirrels, mice, rabbits, birds, and reptiles. Fisher cats and raccoons are almost similar in size and appearance, so they are often mistaken for one another. However, fisher cats are more slender than common raccoons and have pointed faces, while raccoons have rounder faces with black "masks" around their eyes and dark fur. Typically, fishers prey on creatures that are smaller than themselves. Although it's doubtful that fisher cats intentionally pursue raccoons, they might take advantage of an opportunity if they're starving or come upon babies or young raccoons. Foxes  Foxes are found worldwide emerson gear, in North and South America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Foxes eat small mammals like rodents, rabbits, fruits, vegetables, and insects. The red fox is the most common type of fox, and it is found in North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Most red foxes have a reddish coat and are about the size of a medium-sized dog. Foxes and raccoons are almost similar in size, so a fox could potentially kill a raccoon if it is smaller or younger штаны военные. Additionally, raccoons are nocturnal animals. Some foxes are primarily active during the day, so they are not likely to cross paths very often. But since it's in the wild, the likelihood of contact is still high. Humans Last but not least, humans are perhaps the most significant predator of raccoons, but not for food supply. This is because humans have traditionally hunted raccoons for their fur військовий одяг для жінок. Raccoon pelts were popular in the Eastern United States during the 19th and early 20th centuries. They are still used for various purposes, including coats, hats, and gloves. In addition to being hunted for fur, raccoons are also killed because they are considered pests. Raccoons often rummage through trash cans and garbage cans, creating a mess магазин постельного белья. Raccoons also damage property by tearing holes in roofs or walls to get inside buildings. As a result of these activities, humans sometimes trap, shoot, or kill raccoons to remove them. Need Help With Raccoons In Your Property? If you need help with raccoons on your property, contact AAAC Wildlife Removal. We specialize in removing animals that are causing problems for humans, such as by damaging property or getting into garbage cans, without hurting them. Wildlife control companies like ours provide education and information about living peacefully with animals in urban areas ліхтар кемпінговий. This can help prevent conflicts between humans and wild animals. Originally published at AAAC Wildlife Removal: https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/raccoons/raccoon-predators-animals-that-eat-raccoons/

• Brian Moss (President)
• AAAC Wildlife Removal

11/28/2022

Total words : 1307