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Bats are a common presence in Ottawa due to the city’s climate and abundance of old buildings. When they enter homes or attics, residents often wonder if they can remove them on their own. While it may seem simple, bat removal in Ottawa involves strict rules, potential health concerns, and the risk of harming protected species. Understanding what the law allows and how removal works helps avoid costly mistakes.

Legal restrictions on bat removal in Ottawa

In Ontario, bats are protected under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act. This means harming, killing, or disturbing them can result in fines. Removing bats during their maternity season, usually from May to August, is also prohibited. During this time, young bats cannot fly, so sealing entry points could trap them inside. Bat removal in Ottawa therefore requires careful timing and compliance with legal guidelines.

Aspen Wildlife Control regularly assists homeowners with safe exclusion methods that respect both the law and the animals. Their approach includes inspections, humane one-way exits, and sealing potential entry points at the right time of year.

Health and safety considerations

Bats are carriers of diseases like rabies and histoplasmosis, which can spread through droppings. Attempting removal without proper gear increases exposure risks. Attics contaminated with guano may require specialized cleaning. These hazards make do-it-yourself bat removal both unsafe and legally risky.

Professional services such as Aspen Wildlife Control are trained to handle these situations. They use safe protective equipment, follow provincial regulations, and ensure colonies are relocated humanely. Homeowners benefit from long-term prevention strategies instead of quick fixes.

Why professional exclusion is recommended

Beyond legality and safety, proper exclusion prevents recurring infestations. Simply chasing bats out or blocking visible holes is rarely enough. Bats can squeeze through openings as small as a dime, making thorough sealing essential.

Aspen Wildlife Control emphasizes detailed property assessments to identify hidden access points. Their team provides solutions tailored to Ottawa’s housing structures, ensuring bats cannot return once excluded. This level of precision is hard to achieve with a do-it-yourself approach.

For homeowners dealing with bats, the safest and most effective option is to seek professional exclusion. Contacting Aspen Wildlife Control ensures that removal is done legally, safely, and with lasting results.

 

FAQ’s

Can bats be removed from a house in winter in Ottawa?

Yes, but it is rare. Bats often hibernate in attics during winter. Exclusion is usually delayed until spring to avoid trapping them inside.

How can I tell if bats are living in my attic?

Common signs include scratching noises at dusk, droppings near entry points, and dark stains on siding or vents.

Are all bat species in Ottawa protected by law?

Yes. Ontario regulations protect every bat species, making it illegal to harm them or destroy their roosts.

What is the safest way to clean bat droppings?

Cleaning should be done with respirators, gloves, and sealed bags. Many homeowners hire professionals to reduce the risk of histoplasmosis.

How much does bat removal in Ottawa usually cost?

Costs vary depending on colony size and property condition. Factors include exclusion work, guano cleanup, and sealing of entry points.