High-frequency bird repellent devices are effective at driving away birds, which is their intended purpose. However, these devices also tend to have unintended negative consequences. For example, if you or your neighbors own pets, the high-pitched noise emitted by these electronic devices will cause them distress and may even make them aggressive.

Trees that provide a habitat to bats and an abundance of bugs—their main food source—will attract bats to your yard. Because the North American landscape has changed so much in recent years, bats have a harder time finding trees with cavities to shelter in. If your yard has a dead or dying tree with a lot of sun exposure, bats will likely be drawn to it because trees with those features are less common.

Once the animals and their young are out of the house, remove the nest and locate any entry points. Some may be difficult to find because some animals can fit through very small holes. Once you’ve located as many entry points as possible, use materials such as metal or masonry to block off the entry. Ideally, you should choose materials that most animals cannot chew through. Create a one-way door or flap to allow animals to leave but not return. Additional methods include using repellants designed to make an area unappealing to the types of animals that find your home so inviting. 

It is possible, though unlikely, that a home insurance policy will help cover the costs of professional bat removal. However, some policies will chip in for guano removal and associated repairs, such as replacing drywall. Take some time to read the fine print of your homeowner’s insurance policy and call your provider to inquire about bat removal, guano removal, and related repairs.