A 100% volunteer-run organization proudly supported by your generous donations.
Our Bat Program
As one of the only facilities in the NYC area specializing in bat rehabilitation, we are faced with a significant responsibility to provide these essential creatures with the specialized care they require.
Why Are Bats So Important?
Bats are vital to our ecosystem, serving as natural pest controllers by consuming vast amounts of insects, some of which are harmful to crops and human health. They also play an essential role in pollination and seed dispersal, contributing to the health of our forests and agricultural systems. However, many bat species are facing unprecedented threats, including habitat loss, climate change, and diseases such as White-nose Syndrome. In New York, several bat species are classified as endangered or threatened, making our rehabilitation efforts critical.
FUN FACT:
Bats are commonly used by farmers as an environmentally-friendly solution to pests ruining crops. Bats save American farmers around $22.9 BILLION per year by cutting the costs of pesticides and crop damage! (USGS)
What We Do
Our bat rehabilitation program is dedicated to the rescue, care, and safe release of New York’s native bat species. Bats are a vital part of our ecosystem. They are natural pest controllers who help maintain a healthy balance in nature. Sadly, they are often misunderstood and vulnerable to injury, disease, and habitat loss.
Our team provides around-the-clock care to orphaned pups, injured adults, and bats affected by threats like window collisions, cat attacks, or White-nose Syndrome. Each bat receives a personalized rehabilitation plan, from fluid therapy and nutritional support to flight conditioning and release preparation.
Beyond hands-on care, we work to educate the public about the importance of bats and dispel the myths that surround them. Whether it’s through classroom talks, community outreach, or one-on-one conversations, we aim to inspire compassion and understanding for these fascinating creatures.
At Cottontail Cottage, every wing matters—and we’re proud to give these nighttime pollinators a second chance to fly.
Bruce, one of our many patients
Our Facilities
Our bat rehabilitation program is supported by a specialized, off-site facility located in lower Westchester—designed exclusively with bats in mind. This separate location allows us to provide a calm, species-appropriate environment that minimizes stress and maximizes recovery.
The space features custom-built, outdoor flight enclosures where bats can safely rebuild strength, coordination, and endurance before release. These flight cages simulate natural conditions and give our patients the space they need to practice echolocation and maneuver midair.
By keeping our bat patients in a dedicated facility away from other wildlife, we’re able to maintain the quiet, darkness, and biosecurity they require. This focused care environment plays a vital role in ensuring that every bat we release is truly ready to thrive on its own.
But We Can't Do It Without You
Help us to continue this important work.
What To Do If You Find a Bat
1.
Stay Calm and Observe
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Do NOT touch the bat with your bare hands
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Look from a distance:
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Is it flying or grounded?
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Is it a pup (small, hairless, or lightly furred)?
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Does it appear injured (dragging a wing, not moving, bloody)?
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2.
Assess the Situation
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If the bat is out during the day, grounded, or in a strange place, it probably needs help. Go
to Step 4. -
If it's a baby and is alone (no mom around), it's likely orphaned. Go to Step 4.
Example of a bat pup
Just because it's out during the day, does NOT mean it has rabies.
Still, NEVER touch it with bare hands.
3.
Contain It Safely (If Needed)
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Only contain the bat IF
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It’s in danger
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A rehabber tells you to
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How to contain:
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Wear thick gloves or use a thick towel to pick it up
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Quietly and gently gather the bat and cover it with a box
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Slide a piece of cardboard underneath.
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If the bat seems uninjured, release the bat outdoors at nightfall. Otherwise, contact
your local Wildlife Rehabilitator for further instructions.
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Items You'll Need
4.
Call a Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator
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Find one using your state’s DEC/Fish & Wildlife searchable catalog of all nearby rehabbers, or using the button to the right.
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Don’t wait or try to keep the bat as a pet. Injured bats will not survive without proper care.
References
Why are bats important?. USGS. (n.d.). https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/why-are-bats-important#:~:text=By%20eating%20insects%2C%20bats%20save,53%20billion%20dollars%20per%20year.