Chapter Twelve

Not all cages suggested in Chapter 5 (ENVIRONMENT AND HOUSING FOR ADULT BATS) permit flight, but they do provide enough space for adequate exercise. Although Racey (1987) reported that rhinolophids (horseshoe bats) develop swollen wrists within a few days when they are deprived of exercise, I have not found it necessary to actually fly bats to maintain good health (also see Hediger, 1964).

For those caretakers who must fly their bats for one reason or another, the following information is offered. When flying a bat, do so during its active time of year. Temperate-zone bats are active during the spring and summer months, and tropical bats are active all year.

Never fly an obese animal or expose it to predators such as cats and dogs. Cover aquaria and air vents, and fly bats over carpeted floors to protect them against injuries. Bats that are unaccustomed to confined spaces, or those that are obese, may crash into walls, floors, or other obstacles. Some bat genera (e.g., Eumops and Molossus) have relatively narrow wings designed for speed, and some species require as much as a 6-ft. drop in order to become airborne. Such bats should not be allowed to fly indoors or they may suffer injury.

If more than one bat is to be exercised, fly only one individual at a time. Because of their small size, many microchiropterans have the ability to disappear quickly, and so they should be supervised closely during exercise periods. NEVER fly a captive-raised bat outdoors.

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