This article focuses on mosquito bats as an alternative to insecticides. We will be analyzing how this works, as well as its pros and cons when adopted.
If you live in a mosquito infested area or your farm happens to be located in one, then you can agree how this tiny creatures can make your life and business very uncomfortable.
But, are bats any different? Apparently, bats are noisy and not to mention messy animals yet they possess a good side – an eco-friendly substitute for pesticides.
Yes, several studies by experts have proven this to be true of bats. That they have incredible insect-eating capabilities, and can be a natural pest control for mosquitoes particularly.
So how exactly does this new discovery work? How does this winged creatures prove effective in combating these rather annoying and disease-carrying pests.
Success Rate Illustrations
A research led by Dr Zenon Czenze, a from the University of New England’s School of Environmental and Rural Science, explores how bats could be a form of natural pest control in the vineyards of Australia.
He seeks to use this new approach that creates a balance between our agricultural needs and nature.
It has been discovered that there has been a rapid reductions of up to 98% in Mosquitoes larval populations through the intervention of this innovation.
Insectivorous bats have often been employed as a potential biological control for tackling mosquito populations.
The Potential of Acquiring Mosquito Bats
Nearly everyone faced with an the buzzing menace and discomfort of mosquito influx will naturally need a remedy.
One of which has recently become – if there’s a way to enlist mosquito bats in the fight against these insects.
It is quite possible to attract bats to help you out around your property while providing them with suitable habitats for effective mosquito control, but unlike some are inclined to, buying or selling bats is illegal and kicked against.
However, you can explore alternative methods to attract and encourage them rather than attempting to purchase them.
How Bats Can Help To Control Mosquitoes?
The facts that they are called mosquito bats sends a message on its own – one of which is that while bats can help in controlling mosquitoes not all bat species can.
Some bats, possess an exceptional appetite for mosquitoes and just a single bat can consume an alarming number of these insects in one night.
With their remarkable echolocation abilities, bats have the gracious ability to detect and capture mosquitoes mid-flight effortlessly, making them highly efficient predators.
Also, by actively feeding on these bloodsucking pests, bats play a crucial role in reducing their populations and also contribute hugely to minimize the spread of mosquito-borne diseases.
Types Of Bats That Eat Mosquitoes
Mosquito Bats Varieties that prey on insects as part of their diet are basically four main types, and include:
- Big Brown Bat (Eptesicus fuscus)
- Little Brown Bat (Myotis lucifugus)
- Mexican Free-Tailed Bat (Tadarida brasiliensis)
- Hoary Bat (Lasiurus cinereus)
These mosquito-huntung bats, among others, exhibit feeding patterns and behaviors that make them interesting cannibalistic allies in the fight against these mosquitoes.
Weighing the Benefits of Mosquito Bats in Controlling Mosquitoes
Utilizing bats for mosquito control presents several advantages and considerations.
Let’s explore the pros and cons of employing these winged allies in your battle against mosquitoes.
Pros
As a natural pest Control: Bats have proven to be a chemical-free and eco-friendly method of mosquito control which apparently is without side effects to human, eliminating the need for harmful pesticides.
Low Maintenance: Once bats get attracted to your yard, they thrive naturally as long as they are provided with suitable habitat, that require minimal human intervention.
Educational Value: Observing bats in action may be an interesting educational experience, bringing about a greater appreciation for these remarkable creatures.
Cons
No Assurances: Bats are excellent mosquito hunters but their presence alone may not be totally effective in eradicating heavy mosquito populated areas.
Fear and Misconceptions: Some individuals have fears and misconceptions about bats, particularly triggered by myths and beliefs which can deter them from embracing bat-assisted mosquito control methods.
Noise and Guano: Bats make a lot of noise, especially near their roosting sites, and their droppings (called guano) may require occasional cleanup to keep the air and environs serene.
Conclusion
Mosquito bats have been tested and accepted by a wide majority of people to be a great measure an alternative for mosquito control.
By carefully weighing the benefits and cons outlined in this article, you can make a properly informed decision about incorporating bats into your pest control strategy.