What to do if you find a baby bat?
If you find a baby bat that appears to be injured, orphaned, or in distress, it is important to take action. Here are the steps you should follow:
- 1. Safely contain the bat: Using a pair of gloves or a towel, gently place the bat in a secure and well-ventilated container, ensuring it cannot escape.
- 2. Keep it warm: Like other mammals, bats need a warm environment to survive. Use a heating pad or a warm water bottle wrapped in cloth to provide a gentle heat source.
- 3. Contact a wildlife rehabilitator: Reach out to your local wildlife rehabilitator or animal control agency for guidance on next steps and to ensure the bat receives proper care.
Feeding a baby bat
Feeding a baby bat can be a delicate process. Here’s what you need to know:
- 1. Understand their diet: Baby bats primarily feed on their mother’s milk. If you are unable to locate a wildlife rehabilitator immediately, you can try a temporary solution at home.
- 2. Preparing a feeding solution: Mix puppy milk replacer, available at pet stores, with water to create a milk-like consistency. Ensure it is warmed to room temperature before feeding.
- 3. Feeding technique: Using a small syringe or dropper, gently feed the bat small amounts of the prepared solution. Be cautious not to force the bat to drink and allow it to lap up the liquid naturally.
Creating a comfortable environment
A comfortable environment is crucial for the well-being of a baby bat. Take the following steps to provide the optimal living conditions for the bat:
- 1. Create a proper enclosure: Use a secure and well-ventilated container with small air holes to prevent the bat from escaping. Line the container with clean and soft cloth or paper towels.
- 2. Offer roosting options: Bats need a place to hang upside down. Provide soft cloth or towel that the bat can cling to as it would with its mother.
- 3. Maintain a suitable temperature: Keep the bat’s enclosure between 85-90°F (29-32°C) to mimic the warmth it would experience with its mother.
- 4. Limit human interaction: To minimize stress, limit handling and exposure to human presence. Bats are nocturnal creatures and prefer a calm and quiet environment.
When to seek professional help
While your intentions may be good, it is important to know when a baby bat requires professional care. Seek advice from a wildlife rehabilitator if:
- 1. The bat appears injured, with visible wounds or signs of trauma.
- 2. The bat is unable to eat or drink on its own.
- 3. The bat shows signs of illness, such as lethargy or unusual behavior.
- 4. You are unsure if you are providing the proper care for the bat.
Remember, bats are protected animals, and it is illegal to keep them as pets without appropriate permits or licenses. It is always best to consult with professionals to ensure the bat’s well-being and a successful release back into the wild when it is ready.
In conclusion, caring for a baby bat requires careful attention and knowledge. By following the steps discussed in this guide and seeking professional help when necessary, you can contribute to the well-being and successful rehabilitation of a baby bat.