What is a bat’s natural habitat?

It’s true that bats are highly adaptable and research shows that they can be found almost everywhere in the world. Actually, there are only a few places where they can’t survive. Oftentimes, their roosting places are determined by variable factors, including the availability of food and prevailing weather conditions. They like to live in wild caves where they hide from predators and harmful elements, including harsh weather. There are incidences where large colonies have been found living in abandoned mine shafts too. In fact, most species of bats are known to take residence under bridges where they can easily find food and water without any problem.

It is equally important to note that most of species will roost under very large trees that are far from human activity. In this case, they are able to forage for food at night – as most of these insectivorous beings are nocturnal in nature. The large trees full of branches form a better hiding place from predators such as hawks and snakes. Nevertheless, at times they make homes in parks and this can be a nuisance for other animals as well as humans. It is no surprise to know that bats can make your home or property their habitat based on the prevailing weather patterns and living conditions. The bats also like to live in barns and unused tunnels in cities and towns, as well the countryside.

As a matter of fact, all bat species are unique in nature in reference to where they like to roost, their commuting habitats, and where they can hibernate in order to raise the pups. For this reason, some bats will prefer the grasslands while some will definitely go for the woods. You should take note that the size of the woodland is a factor the bats consider before making it their habitat. In almost all cases, 25-50 hectares will make a good home for any species of bats.

The female bats will always find maternity roosts to raise the young ones during summer. After this period is over, they will move to a hibernation roost during the winter period. It’s for this reason that a bat’s habitat is also dictated by their natural activities at that particular time of the year. Overall, bats can only live where they can best survive – food and water being their main needs in exception of winter when they store fats.

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