One of the main distinguishing factors between U.S. bats is what they do during the winter. When cold weather arrives and insects become scarce, bats either go into hibernation or migrate to warmer climates where insects, nectar, and fruit remain plentiful.
Do Bats Hibernate in the Winter?
Little brown bats, big brown bats, and eastern red bats hibernate during the winter.
A place where an animal hibernates is called hibernacula. The ideal hibernacula for a bat to roost have a constant cool temperature and relatively high humidity. Natural hibernaculum is caves, mines, and rock crevices. Bats will also hibernate in attics, barns, sheds, and other unlivable building areas.
Do Bats Migrate in the Winter?
Most migratory bats in the U.S. migrate to Mexico. Most tree species, such as hoary bats, migrate to Mexico, as well as the Mexican free-tailed bats that live in Carlsbad Caverns and the spotted bat. Often, bats that hibernate find home attics to be a safe place for winter.
When Can I Remove Bats in the Winter?
If you find a hibernating bat in your attic, do not disturb it. Bats can survive the winter hibernating on a few grams of stored fat. A bat roused must use its fat storage. During the winter, there aren’t any insects to refuel. A bat can starve to death.
Bats emerge from hibernation when the weather warms and insects return. Depending on where you live, that could be as early as March or last late as May. You can install a bat valve after hibernation and before the maternity season.
The most effective and humane way to remove bats is by utilizing a bat valve in conjunction with a full home exclusion. A bat valve allows for bats to exit your home but not re-enter. Since each bat removal is unique, our specialist will use or create a bat valve specifically for your home. Our inspector will determine the proper amount of bat valves to be used, but most removals only require one bat valve.
Once the bat valve is installed, all other entry points will be sealed, allowing for bats to only exit through the valve. The removal process typically takes 3-7 days. Our specialist will perform a final attic inspection before removing the valve. After removing the valve, the final entry point will be sealed, leaving your home bat-free.