Guide to Fruit Bats: Types, Attractions, and Control Methods

Fruit bats, also known as flying foxes, play an important ecological role by pollinating flowers and dispersing seeds. However, when they invade human spaces, they can cause significant damage. This article provides a detailed look at fruit bats, including their description, the types found worldwide, what attracts them, how to get rid of them naturally, and common pest control methods used against them.

Description of Fruit Bats

Fruit bats belong to the family Pteropodidae and are known for their large size and strong association with fruits, nectar, and flowers. Unlike insectivorous bats, which feed on insects, fruit bats mainly consume fruits such as bananas, mangoes, and guavas.

These bats have large wingspans, often ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 meters (1.6 to 5 feet). They are typically nocturnal creatures and are most active during the evening hours. Their ability to fly for long distances helps them find food sources, often leading them into urban and suburban areas.

Fun Fact:
“Fruit bats are also known as ‘flying foxes’ due to their fox-like face and large, furry bodies.”

Types of Fruit Bats

Fruit bats are found in various parts of the world, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Here are the most common types:

Giant Golden-Crowned Flying Fox (Acerodon jubatus)
- Found in the Philippines.
- Has one of the largest wingspans of any bat, measuring up to 1.5 meters.
Grey-Headed Flying Fox (Pteropus poliocephalus)
- Native to eastern Australia.
- Known for its distinctive greyish head.
Indian Flying Fox (Pteropus giganteus)
- Common in India and Southeast Asia.
- Prefers tropical fruit trees and is one of the largest species in the Pteropus genus.
Little Red Flying Fox (Pteropus scapulatus)
- Found in Australia.
- Known for its small size compared to other fruit bat species.
Straw-Colored Fruit Bat (Eidolon helvum)
- Common in sub-Saharan Africa.
- Feeds mainly on figs and other tropical fruits.

What Attracts Fruit Bats?

Fruit bats are attracted to areas that offer abundant food sources, shelter, and a safe environment for roosting. Here are some of the main factors that attract fruit bats:

1. Availability of Fruit Trees

Fruit bats are primarily attracted to trees that produce ripe fruits such as mangoes, bananas, papayas, and guavas. These trees provide an easy and reliable food source for bats.

2. Nighttime Activity

Fruit bats are nocturnal creatures, meaning they are most active during the night. They are attracted to well-lit urban areas where artificial lighting can mimic the natural nighttime environment.

3. Warm and Humid Environments

Fruit bats prefer tropical and subtropical climates that offer the warmth and humidity they need to survive. Homes and buildings that replicate these conditions or have large, unsealed attics are likely to attract fruit bats.

4. Shelter

Fruit bats require large, stable trees or structures with high ceilings to roost in. They prefer quiet, secluded places to rest during the day, making attics, warehouses, and abandoned buildings attractive options.

How to Get Rid of Fruit Bats Naturally

Getting rid of fruit bats naturally involves preventing them from entering your home or property and encouraging them to leave areas where they have roosted. Here are some effective natural methods:

1. Bat-Proof Your Home

Seal entry points: Check for cracks, gaps, or holes in your attic, walls, or roof. Seal any openings with weatherstripping or caulking to prevent bats from entering.
Install bat barriers: Install netting or mesh around open windows, vents, or chimneys. This allows air to flow freely but keeps bats out.

2. Use Natural Repellents

Essential oils: Bats dislike strong-smelling oils like eucalyptus, peppermint, and lavender. Soak cotton balls in these oils and place them in areas where bats have roosted.
Garlic and mothballs: Bats are repelled by garlic and the scent of mothballs. You can create a natural spray with garlic oil or place mothballs in areas where bats frequently appear.

3. Use Light and Sound

Bright lights: Bats prefer dark areas for roosting. Keeping lights on in attics or near entry points may deter bats from staying.
Ultrasonic devices: These emit high-frequency sounds that are disturbing to bats but inaudible to humans. Place these devices in areas where bats are active to encourage them to leave.

Pest Control Methods for Fruit Bats

If natural methods do not work, professional pest control may be necessary to remove fruit bats safely and effectively. Below are common pest control techniques used to deal with fruit bat infestations:

1. Bat Exclusion

This is a method used by professional pest control companies to remove bats from homes or buildings. It involves sealing entry points and installing one-way doors or nets that allow bats to exit but not re-enter. The exclusion method is most effective during the evening when bats are out feeding.

2. Bat Trapping

Trapping is sometimes used to capture bats and relocate them to a safe environment away from human settlements. This method must be done humanely and in compliance with local wildlife laws.

3. Habitat Modification

By eliminating food sources, shelter, and roosting sites, bats are encouraged to move elsewhere. This can include trimming fruit trees, removing overhanging branches, and cleaning up fallen fruit.

4. Professional Fumigation or Bat Deterrents

In extreme cases, pest control companies may use safe fumigation methods or professional bat deterrents to ensure that bats leave the premises.

Fruit bats, while beneficial to ecosystems, can become a nuisance if they invade urban or suburban areas. Understanding the types of fruit bats, what attracts them, and the natural and professional methods of control can help manage bat populations in a humane and effective manner. Bat-proofing your home and using natural repellents are the best first steps, but seeking professional pest control services is often necessary for larger infestations