Bats in wildlife rehabilitation present unique challenges due to their specialized biology, zoonotic disease considerations, and the specialized care required to successfully rehabilitate and release them.
Bat welfare in rehabilitation requires highly specialized knowledge that most members of the public and many wildlife carers do not possess. Well-intentioned but inappropriate care including incorrect diet, inappropriate housing temperature, or premature release causes avoidable suffering and mortality. The zoonotic considerations around bat handling mean public safety must be balanced with welfare intervention. Connecting members of the public quickly with licensed bat rehabilitators who have appropriate training, equipment, and vaccinations is the most effective welfare intervention at the population level.