16th June 2013
Age: Adult Sex: Female Weight: 31grams
Found: On the road and taken to a local veterinary clinic. Knowing that bats should never be handled by anyone except vaccinated rescuers the clinic immediately called the hospital emergency contact number.
Transported to: The Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital by the Australia Zoo Rescue Team, who are all vaccinated rescuers.
Veterinary Assessment: Battington's condition was very poor when she was brought to Dr Claude. She had blood in her left ear and puncture wounds on the top of her head and very little active reaction to her surroundings.
Treatment: Dr Claude cleaned Battington's wounds with antibacterial solution and started her immediately on two types of antibiotics to prevent any infection and an anti-inflammatory for any swelling that may be present from the trauma to her head.
Outcome: Due to the special requirements for the rehabilitation of these unusual bats, Dr Claude sent Battington to a carer who has previous experience with Yellow-bellied Sheathtails.
AZWH Fact: Yellow-bellied Sheathtail Bats are the high flyers of the microbat world. Using very fast flight above the tree canopy they hunt large insects which make up their diet. Bats are wonderful, unique members of the Australian environment but if you find one injured, DON'T TOUCH, call an expert.
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