Injured or orphaned bats
 The Bay Area is home to thirteen species of bats. They are classified as protected non-game species: they may not be harmed (except under special conditions set by Department of Fish and Game). Bats are very beneficial because they eat a large variety of harmful insects, from mosquitoes to Jerusalem crickets. Some bats roost in trees, others that live in colonies roost in buildings. |
Bat on ground
Do not touch the bat. A bat on the ground should be considered ill or injured.
Cover the bat with a jar or can. Gently slide a piece of cardboard under the bat, enclosing it in the container. Place a secure lid on the container. Take it to the nearest wildlife rehabilitation organization or call your local animal control for pick up. |
Bat caught by cat
Do not touch the bat.
Hold a cardboard tube (from a paper towel roll with one end closed) up to the bat. The bat should crawl into the tube. Gently plug the open end of the tube. Or, carefully cover the bat with a jar or can, gently work the bat into the container and cover it quickly. Make sure you do not touch the bat. Call your local animal control as soon as possible. Cats can contract rabies from bats and can then pass it to people. Contact your veterinarian to check on your cat's rabies vaccination status. |
Bat bite or contact with a bat
Immediately wash the wound with soap and water. Contact your local animal control or county health department and seek medical advice. The bat should be euthanized and tested for rabies to determine if post-exposure rabies injections are required. While most bats are healthy, bats are considered a common rabies carrier. |
Fear of bats
Not all bats have rabies; in fact less than 1/2 of 1% contract rabies. Bats do not deliberately fly into hair; they are usually hunting mosquitoes. |
For more information
California Bat Conservation Fund
Bat Conservation International |
