This year, residents of Los Angeles County have encountered a concerning situation with the discovery of dozens of rabid bats. County health officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and to report any sightings. As of now, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has confirmed a total of 61 rabid bats in 2025, marking the second highest number ever recorded, following the 68 cases in 2021.
Bats play a crucial role in our ecosystem, contributing to pest control and pollination. However, they can also be carriers of rabies, a disease that is nearly always fatal after the onset of symptoms. Muntu Davis, the health officer for Los Angeles County, emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “Anyone who may have had contact with a bat should immediately speak with their medical provider or contact Public Health.”
County health officials advise the public to take immediate action if they come across a bat, whether it is indoors or outdoors. Specifically, if the bat appears sick, is active during the day, is unable to fly, or is found dead, it should be reported to Animal Control. Exposure to rabies can occur if saliva or tissue from a rabid bat enters the body through a scratch, bite, or contact with wounds or mucous membranes such as the mouth, nose, or eyes.
It is important to note that bat bites can be small and may go unnoticed. Individuals who wake up to find a bat in their room or near a sleeping child, person, or pet should treat the situation as a potential exposure. In such cases, contacting local animal control is essential. Bats should not be released back into the wild, as they need to be collected and tested for rabies.
Rabid bats typically peak in numbers during late summer months. For instance, in August 2024, there were 23 recorded cases of rabid bats. The Santa Clarita Valley has reported the highest incidence of rabid bats in Los Angeles County, with the Canyon Bat species accounting for the majority of these cases. To combat this issue, Veterinary Public Health has been actively conducting outreach efforts to enhance public awareness and encourage reporting of bat encounters.
The public health department has issued several recommendations to minimize the risk of rabies exposure. It is crucial to avoid touching bats and to ensure that pets do not interact with them. In Los Angeles County, approximately 14% of bats that come into contact with humans or pets test positive for rabies, and this number rises to about 33% during the late summer months.
By staying informed and taking proper precautions, residents can help protect themselves and their communities from the dangers posed by rabid bats. Always report suspicious bat activity and prioritize safety in any encounters.
