Recent incidents across Michigan have renewed attention on the risks associated with bat exposure and the importance of proper wildlife management. In September 2025, the Grand Traverse County Health Department (GTCHD) confirmed that a bat found inside a residence tested positive for rabies.

In a separate incident, the Barry-Eaton District Health Department (BEDHD) reported that a bat found in Barry County tested positive for rabies in December 2025. Health officials confirmed that all individuals identified as potentially exposed are receiving appropriate post-exposure medical care.

Understanding the Risk of Rabies

According to Michigan.gov, rabies is a preventable viral disease that affects mammals and is most commonly transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. In the United States, rabies is primarily found in wildlife such as bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes. The virus attacks the central nervous system and, without prompt medical treatment following exposure, can lead to severe brain infection and death.

Rabies prevention includes keeping pets properly vaccinated, avoiding contact with wildlife and stray animals, and seeking immediate medical attention after a bite—before symptoms appear.

To learn more about rabies, visit the Michigan.gov website.

How to Protect Your Family and Home

Local and state health officials strongly encourage residents to remain vigilant and take preventative measures to reduce the risk of rabies exposure. Recommended precautions include:

• Avoid direct contact with wild animals, especially bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes.
• Keep all pets up to date on rabies vaccinations, including dogs, cats, ferrets, horses, cattle, and sheep.
• Secure your home by sealing gaps, vents, and other openings that could allow bats to enter.
• Never handle bats or other wildlife with your bare hands.
• If a bat is found in your home, do not release it. Safely contain it without direct contact, contact your local health department regarding possible exposure, and call a licensed wildlife or pest control professional for assistance.
• Seek immediate medical attention if you are bitten, scratched, or have direct contact with a bat or other wild animal.

Professional Bat Eviction and Cleanup Services

The specialists at Northern Pest are trained, equipped, and experienced in safely and effectively resolving bat issues. Our bat eviction process uses specialized exclusion devices designed to allow bats to exit the structure naturally while preventing their return.

After conducting a comprehensive inspection to locate all entry points, our technicians install one-way exclusion valves over those openings. Once the bats have fully vacated, the devices are removed and all access points are permanently sealed to prevent re-entry.

Following eviction, our restoration team addresses the cleanup and repair process. This includes removing bat guano and contaminated materials, disinfecting affected areas, replacing damaged insulation, drywall, or flooring, and restoring the space to a clean, safe condition. When we’re finished, your attic or affected area is returned to like-new condition.

A Humane and Responsible Approach

One of the most common questions we receive is whether our bat eviction process harms the bats. Northern Pest is committed to humane wildlife control. Bats are a protected species and play a vital role in the ecosystem, particularly in controlling insect populations.

Our eviction methods are designed to be ethical and non-lethal. We do not exterminate bats. Instead, we encourage them to relocate safely and prevent future access to your home—protecting both your family and the bat colony.

If you suspect bat activity in your home or have concerns about potential exposure, contact Northern Pest for a professional inspection and peace of mind.

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Northern Pest: Protecting Michigan families like our own. We are licensed and insured to provide pest control for insects and wildlife. Our crew has the expertise to track wildlife entry points and remove pests of all kinds, including our licensed builders, who can make any of the necessary repairs caused by wildlife. Northern Pest is a member of the MDAT and the NWCOA. We are certified by the IICRC to provide professional mold mitigation services resulting from animal damage. From prevention to repair, Northern Pest is your full-service solution.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.