At only 7g, this Lesser Long-Eared microbat is one of the smaller creatures Wildcare is called upon to rescue. This one was found in a school library having separated from its colony likely due to the recent changes in weather.
Sudden cold snaps can cause microbats to go into a mini hibernation state known as torpor. Torpor is an energy-saving mechanism also used by other native species including echidnas, pygmy possums and many other small marsupials. These animals are able to conserve energy by lowering their body temperature and metabolic rate in colder months when food is scarce.
It is likely that this microbat went into torpor and was unable to fly home to roost for the night with its colony. The tiny visitor needed rehydration and a couple of days of good food before being happily released to his colony.