The UK is host to 18 species of bat. All are highly protected in law because they are threatened. It is illegal to handle a bat without a licence unless you do so to help an injured bat with the aim of returning it to the wild.

When to help bats?

	A bat on the ground
	It may just be exhausted or disorientated but it is in a very vulnerable position so should be moved out of danger and a wildlife rescue contacted for advice.
	A bat caught by a cat
	It will need urgent treatment with antibiotics or bacteria from the cats teeth could kill it
	A bat flying around a house.
	Close doors, turn off lights and open the windows as wide as possible and the bat should find its way out.
	A bat hanging on a wall outside.
	This is fairly common and as long as the bat isn't in any immediate danger from people or predators it should be left alone.
	Bats flying around during the day
	It is not unusual for bats to hunt in daylight at certain times of the year.
	Bats found in a loft or roofspace.
	It is common for bats to roost in buildings and illegal to disturb them.

What to do next

Never try to catch a bat in mid flight. You're unlikely to succeed but if you do you may injure the bat.

It is illegal to handle a bat unless to rescue it from danger or help a sick or injured bat. Some bats in the UK have been found to carry rabies. This is uncommon and bats rarely bite but if you need to handle a bat you should do so using gloves or a tea towel. Then place the bat in a secure cardboard box with airholes and a towel and seek advice from a licensed bat rehabilitator.