Bat found hibernating in blinds

The bat will be returned to its natural habitat in the spring

A bat is being cared for by experts after it was found hibernating in blinds at a property in East Sussex.

The Pippistrelle bat was discovered by workmen from a blind repair company who had collected the blinds from Battle.

The bat was taken to the East Sussex Wildlife Rescue and Ambulance Service, where it was checked over before being taken to the Sussex Bat Hospital.

Spokesman Trevor Weeks said the bat was in good condition, but underweight, and would be cared for until the spring.

"We decided that to return the bat for hibernation would not be safe as they need more fat reserves," he said.

He said the bat would spend a few days putting on weight and would then be allowed to hibernate before being returned to its home territory in Battle in the spring.