Sending a bat through the mail is a tricky task. Bats belong to the order Chiroptera, which means ‘hand wing’ in Latin. They’re particularly fragile and delicate animals, which makes them difficult to transport safely. Furthermore, different countries have different laws governing the mailing of bats, making it even more complicated. In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to mail a bat and what packaging materials you’ll need.
Understanding the Laws
Before sending a bat, it’s important to understand the laws surrounding the mailing of bats. Different countries have different regulations, so it’s important to check what laws apply in your jurisdiction. In the United States, for example, it’s illegal to mail bats without a permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. You’ll also need to make sure that the bat has been sourced ethically and is not endangered.
Choosing the Right Box
The box you choose for mailing a bat is incredibly important. The box should be sturdy and able to withstand pressure and bumps. You should also choose a box that’s slightly bigger than the bat, as this will give it some room to move around. It’s important to make sure that the box is well-sealed and doesn’t have any openings that the bat could escape out of.
Using Bubble Wrap
Bubble wrap provides an extra layer of protection for the bat during mailing. It’s important to make sure that all sides of the bat are wrapped in bubble wrap to ensure that it won’t be damaged during transit. When wrapping the bat, make sure to leave some room for air to circulate and that the bubble wrap is not too tight.
Using Packing Peanuts
Packing peanuts are a great way to provide additional protection for your bat during transit. The peanuts should be added to the box and should cover the bat completely. This will help to cushion the bat and provide it with some shock absorption. Make sure to use non-toxic packing peanuts to ensure the safety of the bat.
Using Padding
In addition to bubble wrap and packing peanuts, you should also add some padding to the box. The padding should be soft and able to absorb any shock or impact that the box may experience during transit. You can use things like cotton or foam to provide the padding.
Using a Heat Pack
Bats can become distressed when exposed to extreme temperatures, so it’s important to include a heat pack in the box. Heat packs are designed to provide a steady temperature for the bat and help to keep it calm. You can purchase heat packs from most pet stores or online.
Using a Cool Pack
In some cases, it may be necessary to include a cool pack in the box. This is especially true if the temperature outside is very hot. A cool pack should be placed inside the box and should be able to keep the temperature inside the box steady.
Labeling the Box
It’s important to clearly label the box when mailing a bat. This will let the postal service know that there is a live animal inside the box and will help them to handle it with care. You should also include your contact information in case the box needs to be returned.
Sending the Box
Once you’ve packed the box and labeled it, you’re ready to send it. It’s important to choose a reliable postal service that offers tracking and insurance. This will ensure that the box arrives safely and that you can be compensated if it is lost or damaged.
Conclusion
Mailing a bat is a tricky task and requires careful consideration. You should make sure to follow the laws in your jurisdiction and choose the right packaging materials. Bubble wrap, packing peanuts, padding and heat or cool packs can all help to protect the bat during transit. Finally, make sure to use a reliable postal service with tracking and insurance. With the right preparation and care, you can send a bat safely and with peace of mind.