For those taking a stroll through the stillness of a warm summer evening, the sounds and sights of bats seeking breakfast are common ones. That changes as the weather starts to shift. Bats are seasonal mammals, mainly because their diet consists of plants and insects that don’t do well in the cold. But when that food supply runs out, and bat control in Milwaukee becomes more serious, what are these night fliers supposed to do? Between taking to the skies and nesting in quiet spaces, it turns out that bats have migration and hibernation all figured out.

Appetite for Consumption

Bats need to eat, and when their food consists mainly of insects and fruits, there are seasonal limitations to dining availability. When the seasons change, plants shed their fruits, and insects become increasingly scarce. In addition, though bats are warm-blooded, they still need protection from harsh winters. This leaves only two options for their continued survival: hibernation or migration.

The bat’s choice is mostly determined by its species. Certain kinds prefer to find warmer pastures where fruits are still plentiful, and insects are buzzing busily all year. Other species hibernate up to six months, slowing their metabolism to better handle the colder climate. Some bats combine the two practices and travel a short distance only to hibernate during brief, colder episodes.

Making the Move

For many bats, migration is the solution to the problem of seasonal changes. As experts in bat control Milwaukee know, food for these creatures becomes more plentiful as they journey to warmer places. Other bats travel for distinctly different reasons, such as child-rearing. Nesting in a more hospitable climate helps ensure the comfort and safety of their young. Some shelters just become too inhospitable during the winter months, and a change of scenery helps guarantee the colony’s security year-round.

There is a downside to seasonal travel. Flying long distances with few stops means bats have to prepare for the big trip. Increasing fat storage and muscle capacity are musts, and they will even make the journey during daylight hours if necessary. However, migration is only an option if there is a great nesting spot within their flight radius. If the warmth is too far away, some species opt for an alternate method.

Interim Hibernation

While humans might view any form of long, reoccurring rest as hibernation, bats don’t actually choose this uninterrupted seasonal slumber. To combat the cold, many species slip into torpor, which is a temporary state that can last as long or as short as necessary. This gives local bats more flexibility, waking and resting as the weather permits. Although this makes finding food during winter months more difficult, it provides an adaptation to stay put or move only a short distance for shelter.

Whether migrating or in torpor, bats remain on the lookout for new digs as the seasons change. This means caves, attics and trees are prime targets since they provide cozy quarters to rest the days away. Fall and spring are two times that homeowners should keep a close watch on their abodes as this is when migrating and hibernating bats begin their searches anew.

If you suspect that bats have taken residence in your attic, it’s important not to try and evict them yourself. Bats in torpor may look like they are blissfully unaware of the world, but they are still dangerous and can carry diseases. When it comes to bat control in Milwaukee, residents can contact a name they can trust. Call Skedaddle today to learn how our knowledgeable team can help safely remove bat infestations from your property. After all, even bats deserve warmth during winter, but Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control will ensure it’s not in your attic.