Bat in Memphis, what to do? suggestions?

I think you have a Eastern Red Bat (Lasiurus borealis).Red bats inhabit trees and usually hang from one foot mimicking a leaf. If you can get one. The Missouri Department Of Conservation has a booklet. A Guide To Missouri's Cave Life.There are good pictures of bats in it.

Happy Caving Carroll

Here SOME info if it helps you while your waiting for the appropriate agencies contact you.

HOW, WHEN, AND WHERE DO BATS REST?

During the times of year when bats are active, they spend the day in their roost. Roosts are resting places that help protect bats from predators and weather. Roosts also provide places for mating, raising pups, and hibernating. Roosts may consist of single bats, or groups up to a million or more. Some roost in plain sight, however most bats have roosts that are well hidden, such as caves. At their roost, bats hang head-down. Their weight pulls on special tendons in their legs, which in turn pull on their toes, causing the toes to lock around or against the roost. This saves energy because muscles are not being used. Some bats in temperate regions save energy during the day by entering a state of torpor. This is a temporary deep sleep during which the bat's body temperature cools down to the temperature of its surroundings. The bat warms up again when it wakes in the evening.

WHAT DO BATS DO DURING THE COLD SEASON?

Bats in the temperate zone face several months when food is scarce or unattainable. Some bats migrate to warmer areas where food is more abundant. Some bats hibernate. During hibernation, the bat's body functions slow down, and its body temperature drops to that of its hibernation site. They require very little energy to stay alive during this state. The bat survives on its store of fat until spring comes and food is once again available.

Hibernation

Most bats hibernate during cold weather. In south Florida bats become less active during the dry season (December to April or May), not only as a result of cooler weather, but also because of low food (insect) supply. Bats survive these periods of low activity by using deposits of fat stored when food was abundant.

I'd have no idea, although its not a nice thing to say sometimes its best to leave it and let nature decide the outcome. Bats require special tratment in captivity, and you can't be sure if by keeping it it's actually doing it harm.

You are obviously a kind hearted person and want the best for this little critter, so you should be commended for your concerns.

I hope they got back to you. It's very sweet of you to make an effort. I love bats, but I don't know much about them, wish I could help, but all I can say is good luck!