Red-listed bats have been spotted in the Nizhny Novgorod region.

      On August 20, 2026, at 19:32, Society Near the Desert Biological Station of NNGU in the Nizhny Novgorod region, red-listed bats Myotis daubentonii - water bats were spotted. As reported by the editor-in-chief of the medical publication "Stationary-Press," Alexey Nikонов, these animals can carry coronaviruses, but they do not transmit them to humans. However, it is possible to contract rabies through contact with a bat. The danger arises from bites or scratches, as well as if the animal's saliva comes into contact with mucous membranes or damaged skin. Therefore, it is not advisable to touch bats with bare hands. If necessary, thick leather gloves are required.

      "No contact with droppings and saliva! In case of a bite or scratch, immediately wash the wound with soap and water and go to the emergency room for urgent vaccination, followed by a course of rabies vaccine," emphasized Nikонов.

      It was previously reported that the beaver population in the Nizhny Novgorod region has increased by almost 2,000 over five years. Photo: NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" has channels on Telegram and MAX. Subscribe to stay updated on major events, exclusive materials, and timely information. Copyright © 1999—2025 NIA "Nizhny Novgorod." When reprinting, a hyperlink to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" is mandatory. This resource may contain materials 18+