Bats are excellent at preventing mosquito overpopulation.
The warm, humid climate of Tennessee makes it an ideal mosquito breeding ground. Mosquitoes lay between 100 and 250 eggs, which metamorphose from eggs to adults in a week. Consequently, a few mosquitoes can quickly start an infestation. Bats are natural mosquito killers; the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection reports that a single bat can eat 1200 mosquitoes in an hour.
Bats and Mosquitoes
Most bats are insectivores that eat a variety of insects, including mosquitoes. They live in large colonies and hunt in groups numbering up to 10,000. Though it's unlikely a colony of bats will be able to kill off all mosquitoes in any given area in Tennessee, they can dramatically reduce mosquito populations. In conjunction with mosquito management, bats are helpful predators. Several species of mosquito-killing bats live in Tennessee, including little brown bats, big brown bats, Indiana bats, hoary bats and gray bats.
Bats and Health
Many people are afraid that bats will spread rabies. However, the Tennessee Department of Health reports there were only 18 cases of rabies in bats in 2008, despite the fact the state is home to thousands of bats. Bats will not attack unless they are provoked and typically fly away from humans. To minimize the risk of rabies transmission, don't allow children or pets to play with bats, and never pick up injured or sick bats. Instead, call a qualified wildlife rehabilitator.
Attracting Bats
To attract bats to your yard, consider buying a bat house. Many home and garden supply stores sell these small wooden homes. Large trees also attract bats, which may hide in the trees while hunting for prey. Flowers and herbs attract both insects and bats.
Mosquito Control
In order to maximize the mosquito prevention potential of bats, minimize environmental factors that contribute to mosquito overpopulation. Mosquitoes lay eggs in stagnant water. Tennessee averages 48 inches of rainfall every year, creating several pools of water. Pour out garbage can lids and empty and refill bird baths daily. Clear your gutters of debris and eliminate piles of wood and leaves in your yard, both of which are prime locations for stagnant water collection. Citronella plants are easy to grow and deter mosquitoes, but their scent also may attract bats.
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