Found a bat in your house? Don't panic! Follow the steps below.

Most bats found indoors are crevice bats such as little brown and big brown bats (see CT Species page). Here are two safe ways to capture a bat found indoors. If you need help, call or text Maureen at 860-685-1606
1) Wait until the bat lands and is motionless. A flying bat is difficult to catch, and there's a greater chance of injuring it.
2) Quietly approach the bat and choose the method that best fits the situation:
(Method one) Wearing thick gloves or using a thick towel, gently place the bat in a shoe box or similar container with a secure lid.
(Method two) Place the container over the bat and slide a piece of cardboard under it (as illustrated). Keeping the cardboard in place, turn the container right side up .
3) Weather permitting, release the bat outdoors* (see below). If the bat is not a baby* or injured, take the container outdoors at dusk when it's too dark for hawks to be active but light enough to see what you're doing.
Method one: carefully remove the bat from the container and place it on a safe vertical surface such as a tree trunk.
Method two: release the bat directly from the box (as illustrated).
4) Watch the bat leave. If the bat does not fly away, or if it falls, there might be something wrong with the bat. Use a towel or gloves to gather it up. Keep it in a secure container in a safe place and contact the DEEP wildlife division for a list of bat rehabbers.
5) Monitor the bat: If he bat chooses to rest instead of immediately flying, check the chosen site in the morning. If the bat is still there or has fallen, contact a rehabber.

Do not give the bat food or water before talking to a rehabber.

If you think you have found an injured or baby bat*, don't release it; contact a rehabber .

*Do not release the bat outdoors during cold and/or stormy weather; contact a rehabber.

* Baby bats are very tiny. Big brown bat pups lack fur.

If anyone has been bitten, don't release the bat. Contact your local ACO.