Bats, often shrouded in mystery and misconceptions, are fascinating creatures that play a crucial role in ecosystems worldwide.
As the only mammals capable of sustained flight, bats exhibit a diverse range of adaptations and behaviours that make them unique and indispensable to their habitats.
In South Africa, a variety of bat species call this diverse landscape home, each contributing to the intricate balance of nature.
Here are the most common bat species in South Africa:
1. Yellow House Bat
2. Cape Serotine Bat
3. Gambian Epauletted Fruit Bat
4. Egyptian Free-Tailed Bat
5. Mauritian Tomb Bat
6. Little Free-Tailed Bat
7. Angolan Free-Tailed Bat
8. Common Egyptian Slit-Faced Bat
9. Geoffroy’s Horseshoe Bat
10. Wahlberg’s Epauletted Fruit Bat
Notice who’s not here?
Vampire Bats!
Not only is it that not all bats are blood sucking vampires, but there is only one single specie that feeds on blood and that is the Vampire Bat, found in Latin America only.
Bats in winter:
As winter sets in, bats tend to become more active as they seek shelter from the cold. This increased activity can lead to encounters with bats in and around homes and buildings. If you’re experiencing issues with bats on your property, it’s essential to seek professional assistance for safe and humane bat management.
At SMARTSENZ® IPM, our team specializes in bat management services in Cape Town, Ballito, Nelspruit and Port Elizabeth, offering effective solutions to address bat infestations and ensure the well-being of both humans and bats.
Don’t let bat issues disrupt your winter—click here to get a free bat survey or contact us today for expert assistance.
