Bats have an important role within the ecosystems around the globe and are a protected species in New Jersey. They consume insects and agricultural pests, but can also carry rabies. Rabies can only be confirmed through laboratory testing. The Health Department should be notified any time exposure to a bat may have occurred. Please use the information below to help you take the appropriate steps for each kind of bat related concern.
What should I do if there is a bat in my house?
Bats in living spaces of your house:
- If a bat is in the living space of your home such as a bedroom or living room and you cannot rule out the possibility of exposure, leave the bat alone and contact the Animal Control Officer by calling the Police Dispatch center for assistance (609)-921-2100.
Bats in unfinished spaces or out buildings:
- If the bats are living in your attic, chimney, unfinished basement, or out buildings you should try to bat proof the living space of your home or consult with a private pest control company who can help you prevent the bats from entering living spaces. It is illegal to kill or hire anyone to kill bats. Thoroughly examine your home for holes that may allow bats entry and caulk any openings larger than ¼ inch by ½ inch. Use windows screen, chimney caps, and draft guards beneath doors to basements and attics. Fill electrical and plumbing holes and check for holes or tears in HVAC ducts.
What should I do if a bat landed on me or touched me?
- Bats have small teeth and bites may not be easily seen, therefore individuals do not always know if they have been bitten by a bat. Any contact is considered an exposure.
- Wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water and get medical advice from your doctor.
- Notify the Animal Control Officer immediately by calling the 24 hour dispatch center at
(609)-921-2100
- Whenever possible, the bat should be captured and sent to a lab for rabies testing.
What should I do if I was bitten by a bat?
- Notify the Animal Control Officer immediately by calling the 24 hour dispatch center at
(609)-921-2100.
- Wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water and get medical advice immediately from your doctor or the emergency room.
- Whenever possible, the bat should be captured and sent to a lab for rabies testing.
Could my pet have been exposed to a bat?
- If you think your pet or other domestic animal has been exposed to a bat, contact a veterinarian or the Health Department and have the bat tested for rabies.
- Remember to keep vaccinations current for cats, dogs, and other pets. Pets can be exposed to bats when you aren’t home or can even catch and eat bats without your knowledge.
