What method is recommended for long-term arthropod control in bat colonies?

Using boric acid for dusting is recommended for long-term arthropod control in bat colonies due to its effectiveness as a pest control agent. Boric acid works by disrupting the bodily functions of many arthropods, leading to dehydration and death when they come into contact with it. This method is relatively safe for non-target species, including bats, as it doesn’t rely on toxic chemical insecticides that could harm them and their environment.

Additionally, unlike regular spraying of insecticides, which can provide only short-term control and may require repeated applications, the use of boric acid can reduce the overall insect population more effectively over an extended period. This helps maintain a healthier ecosystem by minimizing the impact on non-target organisms.

Sticky traps and other trapping methods are generally considered less effective for long-term control, as they can only capture a limited number of pests and may not address larger infestations. Sealing entry points is a preventive measure rather than a control method, as it focuses on excluding pests instead of actively managing existing populations.