Safe Handling and Care of a Hanging Bat: What You Should Do

Have you found a small brown bat hanging from your screen door and need guidance on what to do? Bats are important members of our ecosystem, serving as natural pest controllers, but they are also often misunderstood and in need of assistance. This guide will walk you through the steps to safely handle and care for the bat in question.

What to Do if You Find a Bat Hanging from Your Screen Door

If you've come across a small brown bat hanging from your screen door, it's important to act with caution and care. Bats are nocturnal, and may leave on their own once nighttime falls, but there are several steps you can take to ensure their safety and minimize disturbance.

1. Do Not Disturb

First and foremost, avoid touching or disturbing the bat. Handling can cause stress and may lead to injury. Bats play a crucial role in controlling insect populations, so it's important to do what you can to help them.

2. Leave It Alone

While bats may seem vulnerable, they're often just resting. They may leave on their own once it gets dark. If the bat appears healthy and is not in immediate danger, give it a chance to do so.

3. Create an Exit Path

If possible, gently open the door to allow the bat to fly away. Make sure there are no obstacles in its flight path that could hinder its escape. This can greatly increase the likelihood that the bat will leave on its own.

4. Use a Container if Necessary

If the bat does not leave on its own and you need to move it, use a container to transport it safely. Wear gloves to protect yourself and gently place a container over the bat. Slide a piece of cardboard or stiff paper underneath to trap the bat inside. Ensure the container has air holes and is well-ventilated, as bats need to breathe.

5. Release Safely

Once the bat is in the container, take it outside and release it in a safe area, away from people and pets. This might be a nearby wooded area or even a local wildlife sanctuary. Bats need a habitat away from human interference to thrive.

6. Contact Professionals

If the bat appears injured, sick, or if you're uncomfortable handling it, contact a local wildlife rehabilitation center or animal control for assistance. They have the expertise and equipment needed to properly care for the bat.

7. Check for Rabies

Lastly, consider the bat's potential exposure to rabies. If the bat has been in contact with people or pets, or if it appears to be exhibiting strange behavior (such as being active during the day), seek advice from local health authorities. Getting a bat tested for rabies can help protect you and your family.

Additional Tips

Bats are important ecological animals. Some of them eat many mosquitoes, which can be a significant benefit. If you live in an area where bats are normally in hibernation, it's possible they were disturbed, and someone is needed to relocate them to a safe sanctuary. If you're unsure about the situation, you can contact your local county agricultural department to get more information.

Remember, handling a bat can be risky. Avoid touching it with your bare hands and use gloves if possible. There are small animal cages available that you can encourage a bat to enter when it's time to move it. This can provide a safer and more humane method of relocation.

By following these steps, you can help ensure the bat's well-being while protecting yourself and others. Bats are essential to our ecosystem, and helping them can make a significant difference.