Luke Buggert from Complete Ground Control recently responded to a call from a church in St. Stephen, Minnesota.
The church reported hearing critters running through the walls and ceilings, prompting an urgent inspection to identify and resolve the issue.
During the inspection, we found previous evidence of squirrel activity in the basement, including gathered nuts brought inside from outdoors.
We thoroughly examined the structure, identified potential entry points, and sealed them off to prevent further wildlife intrusion.
“No trails leading in and out of the church through the snow led me to believe that there aren’t currently squirrels in the church.”
To ensure no ongoing activity, game cameras were set up to monitor the interior for any movement.
While no current squirrel activity was detected, our team made a shocking discovery in the attic—extensive signs of bat activity, indicating a long-term infestation.
Inspection Findings and Immediate Actions
- Identified past squirrel activity, including food storage remnants.
- Sealed potential entry points to prevent re-entry.
- Set up game cameras to monitor for ongoing activity.
- Checked snow trails to determine if wildlife was still present.
- Found extensive bat activity requiring future exclusion.
Wildlife Monitoring Techniques
| Technique | Purpose | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Game Cameras | Capture animal activity in hidden areas | High |
| Entry Point Sealing | Prevents future intrusions | High |
| Tracking Trails | Determines if animals are still entering | Moderate |
Hidden Bat Infestations A Long-Term Issue
The attic inspection revealed a long-standing bat infestation, with clear evidence of bats roosting inside the structure for years.
This poses significant risks, including:
- Health Concerns – Bat guano harbors fungi that can lead to respiratory issues.
- Structural Damage – Accumulated waste can degrade insulation and wooden beams.
- Unwanted Noises – Bats are nocturnal and often disturb building occupants at night.
To address the infestation, a bat exclusion service is planned for spring when it is safe to remove them without harming young bats.
Until then, game cameras will continue monitoring for any additional wildlife activity.
Signs of a Bat Infestation
| Sign | Description | Concern Level |
| Guano Accumulation | Large piles of droppings in attics or entry points | High |
| Scratching or Fluttering Sounds | Noises inside walls or ceilings at night | Moderate |
| Stains or Grease Marks | Oily smudges around openings where bats enter | High |
Preventative Measures for Large Buildings
Churches and other large buildings are particularly vulnerable to wildlife intrusions due to their size and multiple access points.
Proactive pest control measures can help mitigate risks before they become serious infestations.
Common Wildlife Entry Points
| Area | Potential Risk | Prevention Method |
| Roof & Eaves | Bat and squirrel entry | Install exclusion netting |
| Basement Vents | Rodent access | Seal with heavy-duty mesh |
| Attic Gaps | Bat roosting areas | Close openings with durable materials |
Regular inspections and preventative exclusion techniques are the best ways to protect large buildings from infestations.
Why We Think This Is Important
Wildlife invasions can cause serious structural and health concerns if not addressed.
Large buildings, including churches, often have multiple entry points that make them vulnerable to bats, squirrels, and rodents.
By choosing Complete Ground Control, you receive:
- Expert inspections to identify hidden infestations.
- Wildlife exclusion solutions to permanently block access points.
- Advanced monitoring to confirm activity before taking action.
If you suspect wildlife activity in your home or building, now is the time to act.
Prevent long-term damage and protect your property before an infestation gets worse!
FAQs
How do I know if squirrels are inside my building?
Look for gnaw marks, nests in attics, or scratching sounds in walls and ceilings. Squirrels often leave behind food remnants like nuts and acorns.
What are the dangers of a bat infestation?
Bats can cause respiratory issues through guano accumulation, damage insulation, and create disturbing noises inside attics and walls.
How does a game camera help with pest control?
Game cameras provide 24/7 monitoring, capturing real-time footage of wildlife activity to determine whether pests are still active inside a structure.
When is the best time for bat exclusion?
Spring and late summer are ideal for bat exclusions, as these are the safest times to remove bats without affecting baby bat colonies.
What should I do if I hear scratching in my walls at night?
Contact a wildlife control professional immediately to inspect the issue. Scratching sounds could indicate rodents, squirrels, or bats living inside your walls.
