Is it legal to own a bat in the US?

It depends on your state. Many states require permits for native bats, while some allow non-native fruit bats. Always check local wildlife laws and obtain necessary permits before acquiring a bat.

What do pet bats eat?

Fruit bats eat fruits (like mango, papaya) and nectar, while insectivorous bats need live insects (mealworms, crickets) supplemented with calcium and vitamins. Consult a vet for a precise diet.

Do bats make good pets for beginners?

No. Bats have complex needs: large flight enclosures, specific diets, and specialized veterinary care. They are best suited for experienced wildlife owners with permits.

How long do pet bats live?

Small fruit bats can live 10-20 years, while larger species may reach 30 years. Lifespan depends on diet, housing, and veterinary care.

Can I keep a wild bat as a pet?

No. UK bats and their roosts are legally protected, so they cannot be kept. You can only help wild bats with roost boxes, suitable planting and a water source.

Where should I put a bat box?

Fix it high up, around four metres or more, on a warm, sheltered wall or tree that gets afternoon sun, away from bright lights and busy disturbance.

Bats: A Complete Buyer’s Guide

Bats are fascinating, intelligent creatures, but they are not your average pet. In the US, many states prohibit owning native bats without a permit, and their complex needs make them a challenge even for experienced wildlife owners. This guide is for those who have researched the legal requirements and are ready to provide a specialized home. We’ll cover what to look for, types of bats commonly kept, how to choose, and common pitfalls.

What to Look For

Before acquiring a bat, focus on three essentials: legal status, housing, and diet. Always check local and state laws, owning a bat without a permit can result in fines or confiscation. For housing, bats need a tall, secure enclosure (like a custom aviary or flight cage) with vertical climbing surfaces, hiding spots, and temperature control. They are nocturnal and require a consistent dark/light cycle. Diet is the trickiest: most pet bats eat insects (mealworms, crickets, moths) plus fruit for some species, but supplementation with calcium and vitamins is critical. Consult a veterinarian experienced with exotic mammals for a precise diet plan.

Top Types to Consider

Egyptian Fruit Bat

Pros: Relatively large, social, and easier to handle than insectivorous bats. They eat fruit and nectar, making diet simpler. They can live 20+ years. Often available from reputable breeders.

Jamaican Fruit Bat

Pros: Similarly fruit-based diet, smaller size, and very active during handling. They are known for their gentle nature and adaptability to captivity. Good for owners with some experience.

Seba’s Short-tailed Bat

Pros: A fruit bat that thrives in groups. They are hardy and have a calm demeanor. Their dietary needs are straightforward, and they bond well with caregivers.

Note: Insectivorous bats (like the big brown bat) are more challenging and often wild-caught; they require live insects and have high metabolic needs. Not recommended for beginners.

How to Choose

Select a bat that matches your experience level and local climate. Start with a captive-bred fruit bat from a licensed breeder, avoid wild-caught individuals due to stress and disease risk. Visit the bat before committing; observe its behavior: a healthy bat is alert, has smooth fur, clear eyes, and no nasal discharge. Ask for veterinary records and a diet log. Ensure the seller provides a clear health guarantee. Consider adopting an adult bat if you’re new; juveniles require extra care. Always verify that the species is legal in your state.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the vet check: Bats can carry diseases like rabies, and a specialized vet is essential for vaccinations and health assessments.
Insufficient flight space: Bats need to fly daily. A small cage leads to muscle atrophy and obesity.
Poor diet: Feeding only fruit or mealworms causes nutritional deficiencies. Use a balanced gut-loaded insect diet with supplements.
Ignoring temperature needs: Bats are sensitive to cold. Maintain 75-85°F with humidity around 50-70%.
Handling without gloves: Bats are not cuddly. Stress from improper handling can cause them to bite or panic.

Bottom Line

Owning a bat is a serious commitment that requires legal compliance, specialized housing, and a precise diet. They are not low-maintenance pets. If you can provide a large flight enclosure, a consistent insect or fruit diet, and regular vet care, a bat can be a rewarding companion. Check the current price and availability of supplies on Amazon, but prioritize finding a reputable breeder and exotic vet first.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult a veterinarian and follow local wildlife regulations.

Check current prices on Amazon

Sources

AKC
ASPCA

What you need to know

Supporting wild bats is about habitat, not keeping them as pets, so your buying focus should be on roost boxes and feeding the insects they hunt. Look for an untreated, rough sawn timber bat box with a narrow internal crevice of around fifteen to twenty millimetres, since bats squeeze into tight gaps rather than open cavities. Mount it high, ideally four metres or more, on a sunny wall or mature tree, and avoid any paints or preservatives that release fumes.

Bats are a protected species in the UK, so never buy anything designed to capture, handle or relocate them. Instead, choose products that boost their food supply, such as native wildflower seed mixes and pollinator plants that draw moths at dusk. A simple water feature helps too. If you find an injured or grounded bat, do not handle it with bare hands and contact a local bat rescue or vet for advice.