Bats are beautiful creatures that are extremely important to the ecosystem. However, seeing a bat flying around in circles outside can be a bit spooky. Before you call the exterminator, research to determine if this behavior is a cause for concern.
Below you will find the information you need to help you determine when it’s time to ask for assistance.
Spotting a Bat
One of the first things you should do when you see it is to try to ensure that it is a bat. Many birds and even large insects can look similar to bats if you aren’t familiar with them. Look closely. One of the first giveaways is to recognize whether or not it has a tail. Bats do not have tails.
Assessing Behavior
If you are sure it is a bat, the next thing to do is watch closely to assess its behavior. It likely won’t be hard to tell if the bat is acting strangely. Keep an eye on its flight pattern and general demeanor.
Flight Pattern
Observe the way the bat is flying. It is likely intentional if it moves in a tight, controlled circle. If it is flying out of control, however, it won’t appear to know where it is going or why. Is it weaving or dipping up and down? A zig-zag pattern is usual if the bat is chasing an insect.
Surroundings
Another good indicator of the bat’s intentions is to be aware of your surroundings. Ask yourself a few questions if you see a bat flying around in circles outside. What time of day is it, and what’s happening around you? Are there bugs out? Is it dusk? Bats are very active at night, so seeing one may not be unusual.
They are also much more common in areas with plenty of surrounding trees or buildings they can rest in. Parks, school grounds, and open natural areas are prime locations to see bats.
Flying in Circles
There are plenty of reasons why that might fly in circles, and most of them are not a cause for concern.
Bats are typically social creatures and might fly in circles as a form of communication. Most species use a form of echolocation to keep in touch, so flying in circles could be an excellent way to accomplish this.
It could also be a hunting technique. When bats fly around a group of insects, they can herd them into one general area and pick them off that way.
When To Be Concerned
In a few rare cases, you should get in touch with a professional about bat behavior.
Here are a few signs to watch out for:
- If the bat is flying erratically, it could be injured, sick, or very young.
- If the bat is out in the middle of the day, this is strange. Bats are nocturnal and generally won’t come out during sunlight hours.
- If the bat is on the ground, this is also an indicator that it could be hurt, young, or ill. You mustn’t touch the bat. Instead, get in contact with a professional.
What To Do
If you are concerned about how a bat is behaving or that you could have an infestation on your property, it’s best to contact pest control. They will be able to direct you on the laws and conservation efforts concerning bats in your area. They will also be able to assist you if you need to have them removed.
Final Thoughts
Typically, seeing a bat flying around in circles outside isn’t a concerning behavior. If you notice that they seem to spend a lot of time flying in circles outside your home, rest assured that you are likely very safe. Bats can help keep insects at bay and are fascinating to watch and enjoy.