Bat
The first concern many people have about bats is rabies. Like most mammals, bats can contract rabies. However, less than one half of one percent of bats actually catch the disease. Additionally, sick bats do not seek people out for attack; they generally search for a secluded spot to die quietly.
I found a bat inside my house!
A bat that is found indoors is most likely to be a crevice-dwelling species. Although the fur color of crevice-dwelling bats varies, it is usually a shade of gray or brown. These bats are often lost youngsters or migrating bats. Oftentimes they will find their way out through an open window after dark, if the room the bat occupies is closed off from the rest of the house.
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Bats were brought to our clinic in 2015 including:
Big Brown Bats, Red Bats, Silver-haired bats, and one Hoary Bat!
I found a bat outside
Foliage-roosting bats have beautiful fur in shades of reds, yellows and tans (like dried leaves), or they have multi-colored fur that is frosted with white. These bats are frequently found on the ground in the early summer when mothers are moving their young, or when they become grounded following blue-jay attacks or storms.
Occasionally, these bats panic and defend themselves when humans approach by spreading their wings in mock-attack and making loud hissing or clicking noises. Never attempt to touch a bat barehanded.
If the bat is motionless or appears injured, have someone stand guard over the bat so it does not fall prey to predators such as domestic pets, ants or blue jays. Call the Phoenix Wildlife Center immediately so that we can advise you on next steps.