What To Do After You Catch A Bat

If a bat has entered your home and you have small children or pets that are interested in getting too close to the animal you may not have time to call professionals. In this case, the best option may be to trap the bat in a way that is safest for both you and the animal so it may be returned to the wild. 

If You Catch A Bat In A Net

There are many ways to catch a bat, but the most common are light nets, towels, and large containers. Nets that have thick metal frames and heavy netting, like fishing nets, can harm the animal if you are to swing at them and they come in contact with the metal frame. Their bones are very small and delicate so any broken bones are likely to cause an inability for the animal to survive if released. For this reason, it is best to use a light net, like one for butterflies, as they are more delicate and less likely to harm the bat.

Using A Towel And Gloves

For most people, a towel is the closest thing they have on hand to trap a bat. It is true that you can throw a towel over the animal to catch it, however, it is safest for both the animal and you for you to wear thick gloves and wait until the bat has landed somewhere. Wearing thick gloves reduces the chances that the frightened animal will be able to bite through the towel and harm you. 

Caught Bat

Waiting until the bat has landed assures that they are not suddenly pulled from the air in any way that could harm their delicate wings. If you catch a bat in this manner it is important to act fast as it is stressful for them to be held by humans and you don’t want them to squirm out of your grasp. Quickly bring them outside and release them.

Catching With A Container

A container or bucket provides the best protection for the human and animal if used properly to capture a bat in the house. Once the animal lands, place the container over it and be very cautious that the edges do not crush its wings or small legs. Then you can slowly slide a thin lid or thick piece of paper between the container and wall/surface to temporarily contain the animal. If you need to move the animal to a further location outside remember to put air holes in whatever lid you are using.

Release And Prevent Return

Once the bat is released back into the wild it is important to assess your house for the weak point the animal may have entered through. By assuring that as many small openings as you can find are closed off you will be less likely to deal with catching a bat in your home again.

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