Why is it important to prevent bats from entering structures?

Preventing bats from entering structures is essential primarily for public health and safety. Bats can carry diseases such as rabies, which poses a risk to human health if they come into contact with people or pets. Their droppings, called guano, can also harbor histoplasmosis, a fungus that can lead to serious respiratory issues for humans when inhaled. By keeping bats out of buildings, we reduce the chances of these health risks occurring, making it safer for occupants of those structures.

Public health considerations often take precedence when managing wildlife interactions with human environments, emphasizing the need for proper exclusion and management techniques to protect both people and the bats themselves. Other considerations, such as the impact on urban wildlife or the threats bats may pose to other species, while important, are secondary to the immediate concerns regarding human health and safety.