OCALA, FL (352today.com) – They’re living among us. While they’re rare to see by light of day, you may catch a glimpse of them in the early evening.
While there are many in the area, a substantial bat colony is roosting beneath the train overpass on SE 1st Ave. near Country Town Village in Ocala, prompting local wildlife experts to offer guidance on bat management and conservation.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reminds residents that fall is an ideal time for legal bat exclusion from structures. After bat maternity season ended on August 15, property owners can now safely and legally remove bats using approved exclusion techniques.
Key bat conservation insights include:
- Florida hosts 13 native bat species
- A single bat can consume hundreds of insects nightly
- Bat exclusion is only legal from August 15 through April 15
- It is illegal to harm or kill bats in Florida
The local bat colony represents an important ecological asset. Bats play critical roles in pest control, consuming mosquitoes and agricultural pests while supporting local ecosystem balance.
FWC encourages community involvement through their Bat Force initiative, inviting residents to:
- Share bat conservation information
- Preserve natural roosting sites
- Install bat houses
- Report unusual bat behavior
Residents discovering bat populations are advised to contact wildlife professionals for safe, legal removal. Proper exclusion techniques ensure bat safety while protecting human structures.
For more information, residents can visit MyFWC.com/Bats for comprehensive guidance on coexisting with these beneficial wildlife species.