Bats are fascinating mammals, in part because they are the only mammals capable of true flight. They are also highly beneficial to our surrounding Eco-systems and provide us hidden advantages many are unaware of; like how they consume more than three times their body weight in insects each night, controlling insect populations and reducing pesky bugs at our backyard barbeques.

Bats are nocturnal, which means they are active after dusk and up until dawn. During this time they are hunting for food and sometimes searching for areas to roost. But just because an animal is nocturnal does not mean we will never see them out and about during the day. There are several reasons why you might spot a bat during the daylight hours, but three primary reasons are generally to blame. Continue reading to learn why a bat could be outside during the daytime, and what to do if you come across a wild bat at any time of day or night.

Illness and Injury

One of the most common reasons why a bat or other nocturnal mammal is out in the open during daytime is due to illness or injury. A sick bat can often times leave their roost, or get confused and lost. They can also lose the ability to fly to return to their roost. The same applies to injury. An injured bat may not be able to fly home, leaving them stranded where they lie. One common illness bats are known carriers of is the Rabies Virus. In developed stages, rabies can cause confusion, erratic behavior, disorientation, and more, which can explain why a bat is active or out during the day. But keep in mind that just because a bat is out during the day does not always mean it is sick or hurt.

Lost From Mother

Another common reason for bats to be found in the daytime is because they have been stranded or separated from their mother and colony. A baby bat will simply lie in waiting until their mother finds and retrieves them, but risks being dinner to a larger predator come nightfall. Sometimes, baby bats fall from their roost high up in a tree, leaving them not only injured but marooned from their mother.

Extreme Summer Temperatures

If a bat colony is roosting somewhere that reaches extreme temperatures on exceptionally hot days, they are known to creep out of their shelter for some cool breeze and relief. One example is a tile roof, especially if the tiles are a darker color like blue or black. Roof tiles can reach temperatures of 150 degrees or more on hot summer days, and if bats are roosting in nearby soffits or attics, they may overheat, causing them to seek relief outdoors. This is a rare situation, but one that does occur.

What To Do

If you spot a bat in the day time, never attempt to approach, touch, trap, harm, or kill it under any circumstances. In fact, this is illegal in most states. It is encouraged to look, watch, and appreciate from afar while letting a wild animal be wild. If you find a sick, injured, or orphaned bat, call a wildlife rescue company right away for safe and humane assistance. They retain the proper licensing, training, and resources to exclude bats and relocate them to a safe and faraway habitat.

Indianapolis Bat Removal and Control

Call 317-535-4605 for professional Indianapolis bat removal and control services you can afford. We are highly trained and experienced, DNR licensed wildlife rescue contractors that provide non-lethal bat removal services for residential and commercial properties. We also offer bat removal, control, inspections, proofing, prevention, cleanup, and minor attic restoration for bat damages. Call 317-535-4605 to get the best rates for bat removal in Indianapolis, IN and its surrounding areas.