What Is The Most Effective Way To Seal A Colonial Maternity Colony Of Little Brown Bats In A Historic, Multi-story, Brick Building With Complex Architectural Features, Such As Ornate Cornices And Turrets, While Minimizing The Risk Of Trapping Non-volant Juveniles And Ensuring Compliance With Local Wildlife Regulations And Building Preservation Ordinances?

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To effectively seal a colonial maternity colony of Little Brown Bats in a historic building while adhering to regulations and preservation standards, follow this structured approach:

1. Timing the Exclusion

  • Seasonal Consideration: Schedule the exclusion during late summer or early fall, after the maternity season when juveniles are volant. This avoids trapping non-flying young bats.
  • Consultation: Engage local wildlife experts or biologists to determine the exact timing based on regional maternity season end dates.

2. Inspection and Identification

  • Thorough Inspection: Conduct a detailed examination of the building to locate all bat entry and exit points, focusing on areas with signs of bat activity (guano, urine stains, etc.).
  • Documentation: Record all entry points and their locations for future reference and planning.

3. Exclusion Methods

  • One-Way Devices: Install one-way valves or netting to allow bats to exit without re-entry. Ensure materials are compatible with the building's architecture and aesthetics.
  • Sealing Materials: Use materials like steel wool or expanding foam, ensuring they meet wildlife regulations and preservation standards. Avoid harmful substances.

4. Preservation Compliance

  • Historic Integrity: Employ sealing methods and materials that maintain the building's historic features, such as ornate cornices and turrets. Use traditional methods or materials that blend with the structure.

5. Alternative Roosting Options

  • Bat Boxes: Install bat boxes or artificial roosts nearby as alternative habitats. Position them to receive appropriate sunlight and ensure they are attractive to the bats.

6. Regulatory Compliance

  • Permits and Guidelines: Obtain necessary permits, especially for historic buildings. Adhere to local wildlife regulations and preservation ordinances to avoid legal issues.

7. Monitoring and Documentation

  • Post-Sealing Monitoring: Observe the building to ensure bats do not re-enter and that exclusion methods are effective.
  • Record Keeping: Maintain detailed records of the process, including inspections, methods used, and compliance measures.

8. Professional Collaboration

  • Expert Assistance: Work with wildlife biologists or pest control specialists experienced in bat exclusion to ensure a humane and effective process.

By integrating these steps, the exclusion process balances the preservation of the historic building with the protection and humane treatment of the bat colony.