Which method is deemed less effective for bat control compared to exclusion?

Trapping is considered a less effective method for bat control compared to exclusion because it does not address the underlying issue of bats residing in or returning to a specific area. While trapping can physically remove individual bats from a location, it does not prevent other bats from taking their place or re-infesting the area in the future.

Exclusion, on the other hand, involves sealing off entry points and preventing bats from entering a structure in the first place. This method is proactive and directly tackles the source of the problem, making it a much more effective long-term solution. Additionally, exclusion techniques are more aligned with humane practices, as they encourage bats to leave an area without causing harm.

Habitat modification, while it can reduce attractiveness to bats, does not guarantee that they will leave or not return. Observation is more about monitoring the presence of bats rather than controlling them. Therefore, trapping falls short as a standalone solution when compared to the efficacy of exclusion methods.