Bats in the Attic: How to Handle Them Safely, Legally, and Without Panic

Bats are one of the most misunderstood animals that homeowners encounter — and when they show up in your attic, most people aren’t sure what to do next. In this episode, we’re breaking down the facts, the fears, and the legal do’s and don’ts of dealing with bats in Georgia homes.

We’re joined by two experts who bring unique perspectives to the conversation. First, Katrina Morris from the GA Department of Natural Resources- a wildlife ecologist explains the role bats play in the environment, why they’re often unfairly feared, and how they’re impacted by habitat loss. Then we hear from Ian Williams from Rollins,  a humane exclusion specialist walks us through how bats get into homes, what the removal process really looks like, and how to prevent future intrusions — without harming these protected animals.

If you’ve ever had a bat in your attic, or want to know how to protect your home while still respecting local wildlife, this episode is a must-listen.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

From our Bat Ecology Expert:

• What species of bats are most common in the Atlanta area
• Which bats are endangered or protected in Georgia
• The truth about bats and rabies — how common is it really?
• How bats behave at night and what they’re doing while we sleep
• The ecological benefits of bats, including mosquito control and pollination
• Why bats sometimes end up in homes and how habitat loss contributes
• What homeowners should know about roosting behavior during maternity season
• Whether bat houses are effective in our region — and how to install them safely

From our Bat Exclusion Specialist:

• How bats typically enter homes and the most common entry points
• Signs and sounds that may indicate a bat problem in your attic
• What humane exclusion looks like and why DIY removal can be risky
• Legal restrictions around bat removal in Georgia — including maternity season
• How professionals handle guano cleanup, odor, and contamination safely
• Best practices for bat-proofing your home and sealing up potential access points
• The long-term risks of ignoring a bat colony in your home
• Real-world stories from Atlanta-area bat removals — and what homeowners can learn
• How to take a proactive, respectful approach to prevention and conservation

Why It Matters:

As urban development increases and natural habitats disappear, bats are finding new places to roost — including your home!  While they play a critical role in controlling insect populations and supporting local ecosystems, bats in your attic - or bedroom- can pose health and structural concerns if not handled properly.

This episode provides practical guidance for homeowners, buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals who want to better understand how to protect properties without harming protected wildlife. It’s a conversation about safety, science, and smart homeownership — all in one.

For a PDF about Bats in your home, try this link: http://bit.ly/43322FX

Don’t Miss:

• The most common bat myths (and the real facts behind them)
• Tips for identifying a bat issue early — before it becomes a problem
• Advice on legal compliance, cleanup, and long-term prevention
• Presented by The Perfect Property Real Estate Team
  Helping you protect what matters — from your property value to your peace of mind.

https://linktr.ee/julistgeorge