September 26th, 2013
Kyle warns citizens to be wary of bats

STAFF REPORT

KYLE — City officials in Kyle are taking the unusual step of warning citizens to beware of bats.

The city put out a statement Thursday asking citizens to be careful with the winged creatures, and to avoid contact with a sick or dead bat on the ground.

In August, a dead bat was found on the ground near City Hall on Center Street. The bat later tested positive for rabies.

“This time of year is when the bat populations are at their greatest number as the babies are learning to fly and feed themselves,” said Briana Brecher, City of Kyle Animal Control Officer. “If you see a bat, alive or dead, please stay away from it and don’t touch it. If the bat is in an enclosed area like your home, please call Kyle Animal Control at (512) 268-3232.”

As soon as a grounded bat is found, it should be isolated to prevent further contact with people and animals, according to city officials. If thebat can be isolated, the city advises wearing leather gloves covering it with a pail, coffee can or similar container and placing a heavy object, such as a brick or rock, on top of the container to secure it.

If a human exposure has occurred, the bat will need to be tested for rabies.

“We’ve been fortunate to have not had any human exposure to rabid bats,” Brecher said. “It is also important to remember to keep you pets vaccinated against rabies. You may not realize until it is too late that they have been exposed. Prevention is the best strategy to keep your pets safe.”