MadSci Network: Zoology
Query:

Re: After bat proof home- no re-entry possible, 9 dead bats found - rabies?

Date: Wed Jul 11 19:18:04 2001
Posted By: Alastair Lyon, Science Information Officer
Area of science: Zoology
ID: 993566094.Zo
Message:

Wow. That's an interesting problem.

I'm in Australia, and the bat story is unique here.

Australian bats (including Flying Foxes - ie. fruit bats) are the only 
bats in the world to be rabies free. So we don't have to worry about 
rabies! If I was anywhere else in the world, I would be vaccinated against 
a rabies infection ASAP. It's a terrible disease and can cause a painful, 
slow death. Uggh. 
See your doctor now before you think about handling any bats (including 
picking up dead ones.)

Australian fruit bats do carry lyssavirus, however - a derivative of 
rabies. There is a vaccination against this too and anyone going near bats 
is advised to have it. Especially if scratched or bitten by a bat.

I would report the problems you are having with the bats to the original 
bat controllers who should be able to help solve your problem. For more 
specific bat behaviour questions (I'm not in North America!) ring some 
zoology departments at your local universities and see if you can find a 
bat researcher.

Until the bats decide they don't want to live in your roof anymore, please 
be very careful when handling them, get vaccinated and good luck!



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