A bat needs help when:

1. They have been brought in by a cat. Most times there will be damage to the wings that will need assessing

2. It is found on the floor. A bat never goes to rest on the ground, therefore in these cases the bat definitely needs to be checked

3. If it’s trying to fly but keeps falling down

4. If they’re babies. Most times, you will find babies on the ground. Our bats are very small, adults are rarely more than 5cm long. A baby is the size of a 10c coin, as seen in the cover photo. Never attempt to feed them yourselves as they are extremely sensitive.

In these cases, please call Nature Trust Malta immediately on our emergency number 99999505 and if possible, place it in a small box with air till we arrive.

If a bat is outside and flying, it’s okay, and does not need to be picked up.

And what if a bat has entered your house?

If a bat has entered your house, close the door of the room to contain one area, and open the curtains and windows to the outside. Monitor the situation to see if it has flown out – sometimes it takes even up to 30 minutes for them to find the opening.

Please remember to place water bowls in your outdoor areas. Bats, birds and all other wildlife will be struggling immensely in this heat.

Nature Trust Malta also extended its thanks to the public, especially those who contact the organisation when they notice an animal in distress, their vets, and their dedicated rescue and rehabilitation, volunteers.

Check out Lovin Malta’s other guides on turtles, dolphins and hedgehogs in Malta.

Images: The Cliffs Malta, Nature Trust FEE

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