Treating patients @Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital

Kel the Eastern Tube Nosed Bat

Age: Adult    Sex: Female    Weight: 43gms

Found: In the Mackay region. Initial treatment took place at a vet clinic close to where she was found.
Transported to: The Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital while on the way to an experienced carer.

Veterinary Assessment: Kel was alert and hanging well in her transport cage on arrival. Dr Amber anaesthetised Kel so she could check her condition before going to the carer. Her  injury consisted of a large area of torn and missing right wing membrane as a result of trauma.

Treatment: Kel had already been given antibiotics and had her wound dressed at the revious vet clinic. Dr Amber gave her some more fluids and administered painkillers. Amazingly bat wings do heal well in the right environment and after Kel was checked over she was transferred to the carer to assist with the healing process.

Future: Kel will remain with her carer for a number of months before her wing is completely healed. It will be important that she has the opportunity to fly at some point in care so she can stretch the wing out and prevent scar tissue build up. Following recovery she will be transported back to Mackay for release.

AZWH Fact: Kels cause of affliction is unknown but barbed wire fencing poses a big threat to bats and other low flying and gliding animals. She is the second tube nosed bat ever to be admitted to AZWH