Pennsylvania Bat Rescue is getting a makeover!
Why is this important
As one of the only licensed rehabilitation facilities that specialize in the treatment, care and maintenance of bats in Pennsylvania, we are running out of space. This expansion is critical in caring for the more than 300 native bats we receive annually.
Bats being the only true flying mammal are exceptional and require a great deal of care. We provide a safe, quiet space for them to rest and recover until they are able to be released back into their natural habitat. In some cases, bats that are not able to be released back into their natural environment, are provided lifetime sanctuary.
This project directly benefits our local community by providing a safe and professional resource to help care for injured, orphaned, and distressed bats. This specialized care is vital to their survival and ultimately their return to the wild.
Our new rehabilitation center will take several months to complete. The current rehabilitation space will be renovated, and expansion of additional rooms will follow. Expanding our rehabilitation center will create the necessary space required to continue our rescue efforts.
A NEW CHAPTER
Our floor plan illustrates a hibernation, education/permanent bat, fruit bat flight enclosure and an ICU room. Additionally, there is a sink room and office area. We also created space for a 24-hour drop off that is enclosed for the safety of our little bat patients.
Our office space where finders, and wildlife transporters will be greeted by our staff and volunteers.
A peak into our ICU room where incoming bats will be examined and treated for any injuries or illness. This is also where baby bats will be kept during baby season.
OUR GOAL
To reach our goal we need to raise $40,000 to complete this project. We also need to raise an additional $25,000 for the fruit bat flight area. An anonymous donor has offered to match $25,000 exclusively for the fruit bat area. Your contribution will help save bats that are in desperate need of care and sanctuary.
We also accept Zelle
Another way to help
Creating fundraisers through Facebook or Instagram help tremendously. Job matching donations through businesses and corporations also help us to reach our goal. Host a campaign with friends, family and colleagues to help us continue our mission of helping bats!
Rescuing Fruit Bats
(Short-tailed fruit bats photo courtesy of Bat World Sanctuary)
Earlier this year Bat World Sanctuary reached out to us regarding a dire situation involving Seba short-tailed fruit bats. After consideration we knew we were in a unique position to incorporate essential space needed to provide sanctuary for these small and delicate fruit bats. We are elated to partner with Bat World Sanctuary to serve as a future rescue center to receive fruit bats rescued from the cruel, exotic pet trade, zoos, and aquariums in the Northeast. Individual and/or groups of fruit bats will be transferred to Bat World Sanctuary on a case-by-case basis.
Rescuing Sarah
(Egyptian fruit bats photo courtesy of Bat World Sanctuary)
In early 2020 we received a call regarding a young Egyptian fruit bat who was for sale locally in the exotic pet trade. The seller indicated Sarah was “aggressive” and did not want to be handled, so she isolated the young female in a small cage and kept her in the hallway all alone.
Upon making arrangements to get Sarah to Texas, the pandemic hit. With travel being very limited for a long period, Sarah remained at PA Bat Rescue for the next four months. During that time, she displayed no aggression whatsoever and learned to trust her caregivers enough to accept treats.
In July, a Bat World volunteer flew to PA and drove little Sarah from PA to TX to bring Sarah home. She is pictured above (temporary non-toxic marker), settled in with her new forever family.