Bats

If you find a bat on the ground do not touch it! Bats in Washington can carry rabies and it is transmitted through the animals’ saliva.

Call a wildlife center or the health department before rescuing a bat. If you must move it, wear heavy, thick leather gloves and cover all exposed skin. If you are bitten, save the animal for examination, wash the wound immediately with soap and water and call your doctor right away.

If a bat is roosting on a wall or tree, it is most likely fine. Leave it alone. If it falls from its roost, it may need 20 minutes or so to wake up and fly off. Leave it alone.