Bats are fascinating creatures that belong to the order Chiroptera, making them the only mammals capable of sustained flight. They have unique adaptations that allow them to thrive in various habitats across the globe. Do bats migrate? Some species do and they go long distances to search for food and better conditions to breed and raise their young.
Let’s learn more!
What Are Bats?
Bats are winged mammals characterized by their ability to fly. They also have elongated fingers covered with a thin membrane called the patagium, which forms the wings. Additionally, bats vary widely in size, ranging from the tiny bumblebee bat, measuring around 1.5 inches in length, to the giant golden-crowned flying fox, with a wingspan of up to six feet.
Do Bats Migrate?
Yes, some bat species do migrate. Migration is the seasonal movement of animals from one region to another, often in search of food or more favorable conditions for breeding and raising young. While not all bats migrate, those that do undertake long-distance journeys to find suitable environments.
Which Bat Species Migrate?
Several bat species are known to migrate. The hoary bat, silver-haired bat, eastern red bat, and Brazilian free-tailed bat are among the North American bat species that engage in long-distance migration. Additionally, these bats can travel thousands of miles each year.
Hibernate or Migrate or Torpor?
While migration is one strategy bats use to cope with changing seasons, other bats choose to hibernate. Also, others may enter a state of torpor. Hibernation is a prolonged period of inactivity where bats lower their body temperature and metabolic rate to conserve energy throughout the winter months. Torpor, on the other hand, is a temporary state of reduced activity and metabolism that bats may enter on a nightly basis.
White Nose Syndrome
White Nose Syndrome (WNS) is a devastating disease that affects bats during hibernation. It is caused by a fungus called Pseudogymnoascus destructans, which grows on the skin of the bats’ muzzles, ears, and wings. WNS has resulted in the death of millions of bats in North America since its discovery in 2006.
Other Recommended Maintenance
Now that you know about bats migrating, let’s take a look at a few other areas of recommended maintenance. One of those is bats in the home. If you have bats in your home, this is dangerous. They carry diseases and their urine and droppings can cause damage.
Another is how long raccoons live. We often see these animals roaming the streets, trashcans, and up in trees. They live about 2-3 years in the wild and 5-6 years in captivity.
Lastly, many homeowners wonder if they should have pest control. The answer is yes. You want to protect your health, property, and family members.
When Do I Call a Professional?
If you encounter a bat in your living space or suspect a bat infestation in your home, it is best to call a professional wildlife removal service. Bats can carry diseases like rabies, so handling them without proper knowledge and equipment can be dangerous.
Conclusion
Bats are incredible creatures that play vital roles in ecosystems. Their roles are as pollinators, seed dispersers, and insect controllers. Understanding their behavior, including migration, hibernation, and torpor, helps us appreciate and protect these essential mammals. If you come across a bat in an inappropriate setting, always seek professional help. This is to ensure both your and the bat’s safety. Call All South Pest Control to determine your pest services needs and offer the best preventative maintenance for future pest issues in McDonough, GA, and the surrounding areas.
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