Bukit Panjang resident enamored by adorable bat hanging out at HDB block
A Bukit Panjang resident was treated to the sight of a bat hanging out on the eighth floor of Block 470 Segar Road.
Stomper Wilson shared photos and a video of the bat hanging from a lamp, taken on Nov 26, 2024.
"It's so rare to spot one at an HDB block," said the Stomper.
He provided updates throughout the day, noting that the tiny creature remained in the same spot from 10.50 am to 3.45pm.
He continued to take photos of the animal, which appeared to take to the camera quite well.
He playfully referred to it as 'Batman' and said it looked 'cold' with its wings wrapped around its body.
"So adorable!" Wilson remarked.
While it may be unusual to see bats in urban residential areas, Singapore is home to several bat species.
According to the National Parks Board (NParks), there are about 25 species of bats recorded here.
These range from fruit bats, like the commonly seen Lesser Dog-faced Fruit Bat (Cynopterus brachyotis), to insect-eating species like the Whiskered Myotis (Myotis muricola).
Bats play a crucial ecological role. Fruit bats, for instance, are important pollinators and seed dispersers, helping to maintain Singapore's green spaces.
Insectivorous bats, on the other hand, help control pest populations by feeding on mosquitoes and other insects.
However, urban sightings of bats can sometimes be attributed to habitat loss or disorientation. HDB corridors and void decks may offer temporary refuge, especially if the bat is fatigued or seeking shelter.
Residents encountering bats are encouraged to observe them from a distance and avoid disturbing them.
NParks highlighted that if members of the public come across bats that are injured, distressed or trapped, they should call their Animal Response Centre at 1800-476-1600.
On the rare occasions when bats enter your premises, NParks has an advisory on what to do:
