is this bat poorly ?

[Lemars]

would anyone be able to explain why this bat has chosen to spend the day low to the ground and exposed to full sun, please? Is it unwell or a young one which has fallen ? Any ideas?

I've covered it with a plank to shield it from the sun and it's definitely alive because it's hanging on - and has moved position slightly once.

Is there anything to be done - or just keep an eye on it?

C

[Lemars]

Oooops - forgot images again

[The Woodman]

Hi Lemars

The bat looks as if it's poorly or maybe brought down in a heavy shower of rain. It's difficult to ID from your good images and without seeing its face, ear structure with some biometrics e.g. the length of forearm.

A word of caution - do not handle this bat with bare hands or let domestic pets catch it or play with it. If you have to move it, use gloves or a towel to cover it and wrap it up it. Please consider the European Bat Lyssavirus types, a strain of rabies - more info here....European bat lyssavirus (EBLV) Animal Diseases obviously UK info, you might be able to find French info.

I would find it interesting to see a facial image but don't take any risks. If it has been there a day it will need rehydration. Best done by smothering the nostrils with a drop of clean water from the blunt end of a pencil. If it is thirsty it will lap it up.

Let us know of any development please.

[nightshade]

I find it is best to use a clean artists paint brush dipped in water approach the brush from under its bottom jaw as this is less threatening.
I agree watch out for cats in particular, I have been called to bats on a wall like this and apart from water (which should always be offered) they often take to the air of their own volition as dusk approaches. I am so pleased that you have taken the trouble to look out for the bat, thank you.

[Lemars]

Thank you Woodman and Nightshade.

I've decided not to disturb it, but will monitor it during the afternoon. I'll try the water tonight if it doesn't move at dusk (or thereabouts).

I can't get a photo of the face because I'd never be able to get the camera low enough and underneath it for a half-decent photo - I might also disturb it. I don't really want to do that because it would also expose it to the sun again. That bit of wall should be shaded by about 7pm.

I shall see what happens this evening and keep you posted.

Poor thing - it looked so strange hanging there in the sunshine.
Here's hoping it's not unwell. We did have a sudden shower about 6am, but wouldn't any self-respecting bat have been in bed by then - it having been about 5am UK time?

C

[Lemars]

OH dear, I'm afraid it's dead. The sun went in and I moved the wood to try the water. It had moved a little further down the wall and I lay on the ground to try for that face shot because it's position had altered slightly.

I went to get a brush and some water and when I came back, resumed position and noticed a couple of ants - then a fly. When I tried the paintbrush, it didn't move an inch - so it's dead, I'm afraid.

I wonder why. Do they often choose a place like that to die ?

I'm really quite sad because it was definitely alive this morning.

Thank you both again for your suggestions though.

C

[Lemars]

Just one more thing before I go and find a suitable box for it. Could either or you - or anyone else - tell me what kind of bat I have/had here, please?

I could go and look it up, but you're much more reliable than my own identification. I've never tried to identify a bat before.

C

[Dogghound]

Its a Serotine, however its head is covered in fly eggs Is it actually alive?

[Lemars]

Well guys, I've had a look because I really have to go and bury this little thing. It's a hot day and the flies are very interested.

I think (you'll correct me, I'm sure) it might be a Big Brown bat - having measured the body-length it seems to fit and it certainly resembles the pictures I've seen.
I also came across white nose syndrome, which this one appears NOT to have.

I only delayed in case some other image may be required for accurate identification....................so I hope that won't be necessary now.

Please correct me - all info would be of great interest. And thank you for yours, Woodman and Nightshade.

C

[nightshade]

A photo showing more of the general inner detail of an ear would help a more positive id, particularly the Tragus