Frequently asked questions
You can find answers to our most frequently asked questions by searching on a keyword or category on the right.
A bat hanging on a curtain or wall
If a bat is hanging outside and high up, it is best to leave it alone. If it is low enough to the ground to be vulnerable to predators, you could carefully contain the bat in a strong box with air holes in it. It would be advisable to provide water in a milk bottle lid. Protective gloves must be worn to pick up the bat.
If a bat is indoors, on curtains or on a wall, then try to carefully put it in a box by holding the curtain so it is horizontal while putting the box over the bat and sliding thin cardboard underneath. This may take two people. Take care though - if the bat cannot grip on to the cardboard slipped under the box (if the cardboard is too smooth) it may slip to the bottom of the box.
Releasing a bat
If the bat is found at night, it can be released straight away; if it is found during the day, it should be released at dusk otherwise it will be vulnerable to predators. If you have to release it during the day, ensure you place it high up and in a sheltered position away from direct sunlight and predators. If there is strong wind, heavy rain or the temperature is below 10 degrees Celsius, then do not release the bat that evening but keep it until an evening when the weather improves. Contact the BCT for advice in this situation.
To release a bat from a container, put the container out of doors on its side and on a level surface, so that it can crawl or fly out of the box. Ideally, the level surface should be at least five feet above the ground, and you should stay to make sure it flies off and doesn't just drop to the ground.
Additional advice can obtained be from:
Bat Conservation Trust (BCT)
Helpline: 0845 1300 228
Email: enquiries@bats.org.uk
Caution:- Handling of any animal either domestic, wild, dead or alive may be potentially hazardous. Obvious dangers include bites, scratches and general hygiene issues. Always wear protective gloves if handling bats. Common sense should be applied in all instances and, if unsure, seek additional advice or assistance. Personal hygiene should be taken into consideration after handling any animal, whether it’s domestic, wild, dead or alive.
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