Six Signs Bats Could Be Roosting In Your Loft

Homeowners are being urged to check their lofts for signs of bat activity, as the protected species begin searching for warm, sheltered spots to hibernate over winter.

Bat surveyors at Arbtech  are warning that as temperatures drop and food sources decline, bats will be actively seeking out safe winter roosts – and many homes provide ideal conditions. However, the public is being reminded not to attempt to remove or disturb them, as both bats and their roosts are legally protected. Interfering with them can result in prosecution under UK wildlife legislation.

October marks a key transition period for bats, as most species begin leaving their summer roosts to find cooler, more stable hibernation sites that will stay damp and undisturbed through the winter months. 

Lofts, cellars, and cavity walls can all mimic these ideal conditions, making residential properties a frequent target for roosting bats. 

Older homes are particularly attractive to bats, as gaps in roof tiles, lifted slates, open eaves, fascias and soffit boxes offer perfect access points and roosting spots. And once bats find a suitable roost, they tend to return year after year.

Common indicators of bats in your property include faint squeaking sounds, oily smudge marks on walls, droppings, and pungent odours.

If you suspect bats have moved into your home, do not block entry points or attempt removal yourself. Instead, contact a licensed ecologist or a bat conservation group for advice on how to proceed safely – and lawfully. 

A bat ecologist at Arbtech commented: “As the colder weeks creep in, bats will be actively searching for a place to safely hibernate, and many lofts, attics and even cellars provide the perfect environment for roosting. Bats can leave a mess in the form of droppings, oily streaks and scratches on walls. And because bats are quiet creatures, many homeowners don’t even realise they’re there. There are key signs to look out for but if you suspect bat activity, it’s crucial not to interfere. Bats are legally protected, so it’s important that you don’t disturb them. You should contact an ecologist or your local bat group for advice. If you’re planning property works, you may need a bat survey to check for active roosts and ensure you remain compliant with wildlife law.”

Here are six signs you may have bats in your house:

1. Strange sounds

Although bats don’t generally make much noise, you can still occasionally hear their social vocalisations, especially early in the morning or late at night since they’re nocturnal creatures. They often make high-pitched squeaks, alongside rustling noises. 

2. Droppings

Bat droppings, commonly referred to as guano, are one of the most noticeable signs of bat activity. Guano is small, dark and crumbly, often resembling mouse droppings. It can accumulate in piles near windows, walls, chimneys or other potential entry points.

3. Oily stains

When bats squeeze through small holes to enter the property, they can leave dark, oily stains around the entry points. Over time, the stains can become more noticeable as bats use the same entry points regularly.

4. Pungent odours

If you smell unusual, pungent odours in your home, it may be a sign of bats. A mix of bat droppings and urine can develop into a strong aroma similar to ammonia. 

5. Scratches on walls

Bats can leave scratch marks on various surfaces as they navigate through small cracks and crevices. You can also notice scratches on beams or rafters where they cling to as they rest.

6. Bats flying around the house 

If you see a bat flying around your property during sunrise or dusk, it can be an indicator that bats have also found their way into your home.