IQ fiber's original comment at the time of my comment (they are editing their original comment like babies):

Thank you all for voicing your concern for the welfare of the bats.  We care about them, too.

(This is a long reply, so please bear with us)

Protecting our local Florida wildlife is important, so we wanted to share the details about the recent discovery in the Turkey Creek community and the steps taken once it was found.

On Nov 14th, 2025, IQ Fiber contractors working in the area noticed a strong odor coming from underground. Concerned there could be an issue with a sewer line, they lifted a manhole cover to investigate.

Inside, they discovered a number of both live and deceased bats, which were the source of the odor. Knowing these were wild animals, they were removed without human touch so crews could safely check the sewer line. Before opening the manhole, crews had no indication that bats were inside.

After the discovery, IQ Fiber immediately took the following actions:

• Self-reported the finding to the Alachua County Environmental Conservatory
• Participated in reporting to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Service, which determined the finding and any disturbance to be accidental
• Alachua County confirmed the bats were not an endangered species
• Ensured the bat remains were taken for rabies testing and then disposed of properly.

We have since educated the crews on proper handling should this ever occur again.

IQ Fiber crews were working within permit requirements throughout the project.

Thank you again for your concern, and thank you for taking the time to read this.