North Carolina is home to more than a dozen bat species. They eat insects, are efficient pollinators, and healthy bat populations are a sign of good air quality. However, bats can spread disease, so you will want to call pest control when you have one in your home. Here are some of the most common types of bats you may encounter.

Bats Often Seen by North Carolina Pest Control 

1. Eastern Pipistrelle

Also known as a tricolored bat, the eastern pipistrelle is the smallest one in North Carolina. Their wingspan is about 4-5 inches, and their bodies are barely an inch long. They appear light brown, but on close inspection, you can see the hairs are tricolored, with a dark base and lighter tip. They prefer to nest in open wooded areas near water, and you won't typically find them in fields or deep forests. They nest in trees, rock crevices, and buildings. They hibernate longer than other species, so you're most likely to encounter them from April through August. 

2. Eastern Red Bat 

North Carolina pest control professionals also regularly encounter these microbats, which have reddish-colored fur with white patches on their shoulders. They have a wingspan of up to 13 inches, and adults are 4-5 inches long. They live in trees, spending most of the day about 4-10 feet off the ground in dense foliage. They usually migrate to South America during the coldest months, so it's more likely you will encounter them in summer.

3. Big Brown Bat 

Unlike those that hibernate in the winter, these bats are more tolerant of colder weather and may be found inside homes all year. Their wingspan is typically 13-16 inches. They have brown body fur, ranging from light or pinkish-tan to medium brown, with black wings, ears, and faces. They also have rounded ears, compared to the more pointed ones found on other species. 

If you have a bat in your home, call Acme Pest Control in Concord, NC. They have more than 70 years of industry-leading experience and offer comprehensive removal and prevention services for all types of pests, including insects and rodents. Call (704) 786-4166 to request assistance, and learn more about their services online.