The seasonal migration of bats has begun in Ukraine, creating risks for city residents and the animals themselves.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Animal rights activists are urging residents of Kyiv and other cities to pay close attention to the safety of their homes due to the active movement of these flying mammals. During this time of year, bats travel long distances in search of new resting places and often enter people’s homes through open windows and vents.
How Bats Enter Apartments and Why It’s Dangerous
The Kyiv Animal Rescue Team explains that both resident and migratory species of bats inhabit Ukraine. During migration, these animals may accidentally fly into apartments, especially if the windows are not protected by screens. Once inside residential spaces, they often cannot find their way out, and a prolonged absence of the homeowners makes the situation critical for them.
“During migration, bats cover hundreds of kilometers and stop to rest in unfamiliar places. A window without a screen or a gap in a vent can become a trap for them — they fly inside and cannot escape. Besides the risk of an entire colony ending up in an apartment, this is dangerous for the animals themselves: they can get injured indoors. A prolonged absence of homeowners can be fatal for them,” warned KARG.
Conservation of Bat Populations and Advice for Residents
The bat population in Ukraine is rapidly declining, so all species found in the country are already listed in the Red Book of Ukraine. Animal rights activists emphasize that to protect the animals and avoid unpleasant situations in their homes, residents should install protective screens on windows or close them during vacations and absences.
Following simple recommendations will help save the lives of these flying mammals and ensure peace in your homes.