I Found a Bat, Now What?

Never handle a bat with your bare hands!

If your pet catches a bat or you find one in or around your house, make a reasonable attempt to capture the animal, but take precautions so you're not bitten or scratched. Wear heavy gloves or use a stick or a shovel to pick up the bat. Confine it in a container, such as a coffee can. Slide cardboard under the can and tape it closed.

Contact your local health department or animal control agency to report the incident. These agencies can determine if the bat can be released or should be tested. If your pet was bitten by a bat, had a bat in its mouth, or was near a grounded bat, contact your veterinarian in addition to your local health department or animal control agency.

If a bat is found roosting in an unusual area, it should be left undisturbed until nightfall when it should leave to find a more suitable roost site.

If you have any further questions or concerns about bats, please contact Greenwood at (303) 823-8455.