Northern California wildlife experts are urging residents to skip a common Halloween decoration this year after multiple bats became entangled in artificial spider webbing. The sticky material, often stretched across porches and yards, can leave the animals unable to escape and at risk of death. Corky Quirk of NorCal Bats has already fielded two such calls from homeowners in recent weeks. ([1]) **A Decoration That Turns Deadly** Homeowners who drape the synthetic strands across railings and bushes may not realize the hazard they create. Unlike natural spider webs, the artificial version holds fast and does not break easily when an animal struggles. Bats that fly into the material can end up with wings and bodies wrapped tightly, leading to exhaustion or exposure. One bat recovered this season died, while another remains under care. Quirk described one case in which the animal had webbing wrapped around its wings and in its mouth. The group noted that bats do not rely on echolocation for every flight. When moving between points or pursuing insects near the ground, they can miss the thin, sticky lines until it is too late. **Other Creatures at Risk** Bats are not the only animals affected. Birds and dragonflies have also been found caught in the same decorations. Wildlife groups point out that the non-biodegradable strands can leave animals stranded for hours or days, increasing the chance of starvation or injury from weather. The material’s durability, which makes it attractive for seasonal displays, is precisely what creates the problem for wildlife. **What Homeowners Should Do** If a bat or other animal is discovered in decorations, experts advise against handling it directly. Contact local wildlife rehabilitation groups or animal control instead. California health officials note that bats can carry rabies, and any contact requires prompt medical evaluation. The state has recorded 320 rabid bat cases so far this year. Residents planning outdoor displays can reduce risk by choosing decorations that do not rely on loose synthetic webbing. Simple swaps, such as using cotton batting or paper elements that break apart more readily, help keep yards festive without creating traps. Checking yards each morning during the Halloween period can also catch problems early. The warning comes at a time when many households are finishing their seasonal setups. A small change in materials can prevent unnecessary harm to local wildlife while still delivering the spooky atmosphere homeowners want.
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