Help with Bats

If you NEED HELP with a bat you have found…..

In November of 2002 a bat worker in Scotland died of a rabies related virus, contracted, it is believed, through being bitten by a bat. The risk of contracting rabies is, at best, very slight, and is zero if you do not actually handle a bat. You may, however, find a bat in your house and wish to help it. The following advice is aimed at minimising the risk to both you and the bat. Further information on rabies can be found at.

  http://www.bats.org.uk/

If you find a bat in your house that does not appear to be injured then, the bat has probably 'lost its way'.  Given a little help, will continue on its way quite happily. 

To move the bat, ensure that you wear thick protective gloves; place a small cardboard box carefully over the bat, then slide a piece of card or paper very slowly underneath to contain it. 

Keep the bat, still in the box, in a quiet place, until the evening and then, taking the box outside, gently take the lid off, place the box somewhere off the ground, and, after a time, the bat will fly away. 

When picking a bat up please be aware that they grip with their thumbs and feet so they must be lifted gently so as not to injure them.

If your bat appears to be injured ( note that during late autumn a bat that is reluctant to fly may just be sleepy, in which case treat as above ) please call the Bat Helpline on the number below and they will pass you onto someone who can help.

Please note, if you are all nervous about moving any bat you find then please call the Bat Helpline, on 0845 1300 228, who will pass your details on to an expert who can help.

If you want information on the DORSET BAT GROUP….

Please email your query to mailto:info[at]dorsetbatgroup.org.uk

If you need information with regards DEVELOPMENT OR BUILDING WORK that may effect bats…..

All bats are specially protected by law and any work that may disturb them or where they live must be discussed with Natural England before proceeding. If you have any questions regarding any kind of development or building work then please contact Natural England 01929 557450 for advice.