While you may see many bats in the evenings during the summer, they seem to vanish when the weather gets cold. Where do bats go in the winter? Bats migrate and hibernate. The preferred activity depends on the colony and species. Many bats native to Whitby hibernate for the winter months.

FAQs About Winter Bat Behaviour

Many homeowners find it strange that bats can both hibernate and migrate. The behaviour is odd, but researchers are still learning about all the different species of bat and their behaviours. They know some bats migrate because countries like Africa see an uptick in bat populations during the months of December through February. They also know that some species hibernate because of the discovery of cave-dwelling colonies in the Canadian winter.

Some animal behaviourists believe the hibernation or migration cycles might have more to do with proximity to other, warmer countries than any biological process. The stance seems to suggest that bats can manipulate their systems by choice, and the ability of some species to both hibernate and migrate may offer evidence to support the hypothesis.

In truth, there is still much that scientists and researchers do not know about bats, leaving homeowners with many questions. Most of the questions revolve around bats and residential attic spaces.

1. Is It Common To Find Bats in the Attic?

Attics present ideal nesting sites for bat colonies, especially in the winter. Bats prefer dark, dry, and warm places that offer protection from predators and safety for them and their babies, especially if they hibernate. An attic space, while colder than the rest of a house, is usually much warmer than the outside. Also, since bats can squeeze through tiny openings around the roof, they can feel safe that larger predators will not gain access to the colony while they sleep.

2. Where Do Bats Go in the Winter?

If bats do not hibernate, they will migrate to warmer locations. Warmer areas might exist within the same country, or the animals may have to travel across borders. 

While bats will migrate when necessary, they are short-distance migrators compared to other birds. The maximum migration path for bats is 2,000 km. It is rare for bats to commit to intercontinental migration.

The Type of Property Damage Bats Might Cause

If bats get inside your attic, they can cause extensive property damage, especially since most homeowners will not realize they have bats until months later. Bat guano is dangerous and can cause extensive damage. When the waste material dries up, it can create a substance known as guano dust, which, if inhaled, can cause histoplasmosis, a severe respiratory condition. Also, bats can damage attic and wall insulation and other materials, including personal items stored in the attic.

Wildlife Control Companies As Restoration Services

Reputable wildlife control services are more than animal removal experts; they are also mitigation and restoration specialists. Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control offers attic restoration services. The service includes an initial assessment of the space and damage followed by a thorough clearing and cleaning of the affected area. Finally, the company seals the area and replenishes lost insulation.

Humane and Safe Bat Removal Services

Most bats are protected species, so it is best to contact Whitby wildlife removal rather than attempt DIY techniques. In many areas, it is illegal to remove a hibernating bat from its nesting site. 

To ensure you remain on the right side of the law and avoid any fines, contact Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control and request a property inspection. The service’s trained technicians can answer all of your questions and offer potential solutions for bat prevention and removal.