How to Remove a Live Bat from your House

Having a bat in your house can be very alarming. With a little knowledge and patience (and maybe a little bravery) you can remove a live bat from your house with no harm to yourself or the animal.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Heavy gloves
• Towel
• Cardboard box

1. Stop screaming, it's upsetting the bat. Remove any children and pets from the room. Close all doors that lead to other rooms so the bat is contained. Open any windows or doors that lead to the outside.
2. The bat hasn't flown outside? Put on your heavy gloves. Wait for the bat to be still. Cover the bat with the towel and carefully (don't squish him) pick him up and place him in a box. Or, you can place the box (or other container) directly over the bat and very gently slide a piece of cardboard between it and the wall.
3. Assess the bat. Was it flying well or did it appear injured or sick?
   If it appeared injured put the box containing the bat in a safe, quiet place and call a local wildlife rehabilitator to help.
   If the bat was flying, release it outdoors at night from a high spot like a deck or ladder. Make sure to wear your gloves and bring a towel in case you have any problems.

Tips & Warnings

• Less than one half of one percent of bats carry rabies.
• Bats are mammals and like all mammals can carry rabies. Never handle a bat without heavy gloves.
• If you have been bitten by or had saliva on you from a bat, or any other wild mammal, immediately contact your doctor.