​What to do with a bat
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​I found a bat, what should I do?

Bats are the only wild carrier of rabies in B.C. and should never be touched or directly handled. Rabies can spread through just a drop of a bat’s saliva. Vaccinate your pet to protect them from contracting rabies.

If a bat has had any skin contact with a person, the bat must be euthanized and tested for rabies. If a bat has had contact with a pet, the bat may be sent for rabies testing. Contact your doctor, veterinarian or local public health authority immediately in cases of contact with a bat. Learn more about rabies transmission.

Bat populations are in decline, and injured bats can be rehabilitated. Call our Animal Helpline at 1-855-622-7722 for advice on safely containing bats and finding a wildlife rehabilitator.

Photo credit: Merlin Tuttle