Bats

Bats play an important role in our ecosystem, but they can also submit deadly diseases to humans, such as Rabies.

What do I do if I find a bat in my home?
If a bat is present in your home, contact an animal-control agency for assistance. It may be important to capture the bat for rabies testing, especially if a potential bite or exposure has occurred. Sometimes, professional help may be unavailable. In such cases, use precautions to capture the bat safely, as described below.

How do I capture a bat?
  • You will need the following items:
    • thick work gloves, preferably leather
    • small box or coffee can
    • piece of cardboard
    • tape
  • When the bat lands, approach it slowly while wearing gloves, and place the box or coffee can over it.
  • Slide the cardboard under the container to trap the bat inside.
  • Tape the cardboard to the container securely, and punch small holes in the cardboard, allowing the bat to breathe.
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What is my risk with bats and rabies?


If you are bitten or saliva from a bat gets into your eyes, nose, mouth, or wounds:
  1. Wash the affected area thoroughly
  2. Get medical attention immediately
  3. Call us at 610.344.6452 so we can make arrangements to have the bat tested immediately. You may be able to delay rabies treatment by having the bat tested.
Bats have small teeth that may leave marks not easily seen. Although many people know if they have been bitten by a bat, there are circumstances when a person might not be aware or able to tell if a bite has occurred. Some of these instances may include:
  • If a person awakes to find a bat in the room
  • If you find a bat in a room with an unattended child
  • If you see a bat near a person with a disability
If the above occurs, get immediate medical attention and call us at 610.344.6452 so we can make arrangements to have the bat tested immediately. If it cannot be ruled out that the bat is free from rabies and an exposure has occurred, post-exposure treatment may need to be considered.

If you are sure that no exposure occurred, release the bat outside.

How do I keep bats out of my home?


It is best to contact an animal-control or wildlife conservation agency for assistance with "bat-proofing" your home. If you choose to do the "bat-proofing" yourself, here are some suggestions.
  • Examine your home for holes that might allow bats entry into your living quarters.Any holes larger than a quarter-inch should be caulked.
  • Use window screens, chimney caps, and draft-guards beneath doors to attics.
  • Fill electrical and plumbing holes with stainless steel wool or caulking.
  • Ensure that all doors to the outside close tightly.
Most bats leave in the fall or winter to hibernate, so these are the best times to "bat-proof" your home. During summer, many young bats are unable to fly. If you exclude adult bats during this time, the young bats may be trapped inside.

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