Found a Bat? Now What?? | United States

FOUND A BAT? NOW WHAT?!?

Bats are amazing animals. Of course, coming across them in your home, business, yard, etc. can be a bit surprising.

So, we wanted to pass along a few pointers if you find one.

NO TOUCH!!!

Just like any wild animal, never touch a bat.

- If it’s in your home, close it in one room and open a window. It should and eventually be able to find its way out.

- If you feel that you REALLY need to contain the bat (which you shouldn’t to be on the safe side), use thick gardening/welding gloves, place a box over the bat, and slide a thin piece of sturdy material underneath. Secure in place, ensuring proper air flow and release outdoors.

LUBEE DOES NOT TAKE BATS!!!

We know your intentions are sincere, but we are not a rescue/rehab facility (although we do many other Awesome Batty things).

- If you live in Florida, please check out this link from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission which provides a Florida County list of local Wildlife Rehabbers.

- The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission has 5 Regional Offices that you can contact Monday-Friday 8-5pm EST and speak with a representative directly.

- Outside of north central FL, contact your local or county wildlife care facility.

Find them through a google search i.e.: "Your County wildlife rescue".

- If you find a bat in the fall season, it’s not a baby, the bat is a full grown adult. Pups in the U.S. are typically born in the spring and are on their own after a few months. U.S. bats are small compared to the giants at Lubee, and most species have a body length less than 2-3” and wingspan <12”.

- Bats get cold. If your temps have been consistently below 55 and you find a bat, there’s a good chance the bat went into torpor, or is simply a bit cold. If temps warm up it should be fine.

- Once again, never touch a bat. Good Samaritans wanting to help, often get bit (which any wild animal will do in self defense). If you get bit, you NEED TO SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION IMMEDIATELY. The bat will also need tested for rabies which entails removing the head and obtaining a brain sample. Please contact a local wildlife specialist trained in handling and restraint.