The freezing weather in the United States affected not only humans but also wildlife animals. According to a recent report, bats were rescued in Houston, Texas, after exposure to freezing temperatures.
The previous weather forecast reported falling iguanas in portions of Florida, as many iguanas found the weather conditions difficult. The report explained that the said animals were not used to the cold weather, making them more vulnerable to freezing conditions.
The extremely cold weather in the country with the blast of arctic air brought freezing weather and ice conditions on Christmas week as many people celebrated the holiday.
Animals are sensitive to temperatures. Weather conditions could impact their existence to survival, especially the recent snowstorm in the United States. The sudden weather change could put animals at risk, especially if they are not used to the cold weather.
Rescued wild bats
Recently, The Guardian reported that about 1,544 wild bats were rescued as the weather reached freezing conditions.
The report said that 700 bats were then released in Texas Area (Houston). The affected wild bats underwent one week of care after exposure to freezing temperatures.
The frigid conditions became challenging for the wild bats. In the previous report, the National Weather Service warned that the winter storm could unload heavy snow and blizzard conditions.
The severe and major winter storm in the United States left casualties, widespread power outages, heavy snow and significant travel delays.
Furthermore, The Guardian said that the 1,500 rescued chiropterans experienced freezing temperatures. Some suffered hypothermic shock. The rescue happened between Friday and Tuesday. A recent report said that 929 bats were saved near Brazoria county.
The Guardian reported that the Texas Wildlife Rehabilitation Coalition and Houston Humane Society said that the bats (Mexican free-tailed bats) were being taken care of and nursed.
After the weather improved, the bats were finally released to their colony under the city's Waugh Drive bridge and Pearland Fite Road Bridge in Pearland, Texas.
Colder and freezing temperatures
The weather report that the freezing ice conditions became more challenging for the bats. They fell on the ground or pavement.
According to the Guardian, the Houston Human Society explained that bats couldn't live in extreme weather, especially when they fall on the ground. Some of the bats who were stuck on the ground managed to survive.
The Houston Human Society added that some of the bats suffering from frigid weather required to heat and hydration to alleviate the cold weather.
Also Read: Conservation of Animals is Key to Forest Recovery Efforts and Growth, New Study Reveals
The freezing weather and cold snap could be dangerous to bats and lead to sudden death. The rescuers provided bats with an incubator to get warm. They monitored and fed the bats until they finally recovered.
Furthermore, the Guardian report said that bats also are at risk of changing weather. Climate change and global warming contributed to the danger.
The rising temperatures, supercharged weather and sudden cold weather could make animals adapt difficult, especially if they are not used to the colder weather.
Wildlife animals not accustomed to the cold weather could suffer the same fate.
Related Article: Colder Weather and Wintry Conditions Could Affect Iguanas in Florida
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